Chris Coghlan MP

Chris Coghlan

Lib Dem MP for Dorking & Horley

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My Maiden Speech

 

I am honoured that last year my Maiden speech in Parliament was nominated for Speech of the Year by Parliament News alongside 5 other MPs.

In it, I shared Christopher Laskaris’s tragic story—a young man with autism who was murdered. Together with his mother Fiona, Jake Richards MP (Labour) and Jeremy Hunt MP (Conservative). I’m working to improve the law to try and stop this happening again.

Christopher grew up in my childhood home, Jake was the barrister at his inquest and Jeremy is Fiona’s MP.

"As your Member of Parliament, I am committed to addressing the ongoing challenges that our community faces, challenges that have only intensified in recent years. Many in Dorking are struggling to make ends meet, with rising costs making it difficult to feed their families and pay their bills. Access to healthcare is a significant concern, with too many unable to secure timely appointments with their GPs.

The impact of economic instability is felt by local businesses, many of which are fighting to survive amidst the cost of living crisis. I believe passionately that we can forge a better path forward. This area is my home—where I grew up, where I live, and where my children attend school. My wife and I are deeply invested in ensuring a bright future for our three daughters. We want them to have access to good jobs, affordable housing, and a reliable NHS that will care for them. We also want to protect our beautiful countryside for future generations.

My journey has taken me from the bustling finance sector to serving in the British Army, where I fought against terrorism in Iraq. After meeting atrocity survivors living in extreme poverty in Mozambique, I co-founded the charity Grow Movement, which provides business learning and support to entrepreneurs and businesses around the world. Now, I am dedicated to championing the change our community needs

I believe in a liberal economy that prioritises personal freedom and social justice. We deserve better than a government whose decisions have led to such significant financial and social damage. For too long, this area has been represented by Conservative MPs who seem to take your vote for granted.  The Liberal Democrats are ready to lead that change, and I am here to ensure your voice is heard in Westminster."

Chris Coghlan MP
Chris Coghlan is the Liberal Democrat MP for Dorking & Horley

News from Chris Coghlan MP

Ed Davey at PMQs
Chris Coghlan

Prime Minister responds to Chris' campaign

At PMQs, Ed Davey challenged Keir Starmer in response to Chris' campaign to save the lives of others by changing the MCA following the terrible murder of Christopher Laskaris. The Prime minster promised to look into anything further that can be done.

30 Apr 2025
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Chris speaking in Parliament about Ukraine
Chris Coghlan

Chris banned from Russia

I was touched to see that the Russian government has been watching my speeches in Parliament. They have sanctioned me as a result.

25 Apr 2025
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Fiona Laskaris and Chris Coghlan MP
Chris Coghlan

Changing the Mental Capacity Act 2005

Chris Coghlan MP spoke to ITV news to tell the story of Fiona Laskaris and her autistic son, Christopher, and how changing the Mental Capacity Act 2005 could have saved his life.

18 Apr 2025
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