JAMES JOINS THE GOVERNMENT

 

 

James Duddridge, Member of Parliament for Rochford and Southend East, has accepted a role as a Lord Commissioner, a Whip in the Coalition Government. 

James said:

“I am delighted to be serving as a Government Whip. It was a great honour to be part of David Cameron’s frontbench team in opposition but to serve as part of the Government is an even greater privilege.”

“I am looking forward to working closely with Government Ministers to ensure that the business of the House of Commons runs smoothly.”

As a Government Whip, James will no longer be able to speak in debates in the House of Commons or ask Parliamentary questions but assures his constituents that he will continue to represent them to the best of his ability in Parliament, James said:

“Although I am no longer able to raise constituent concerns on the floor of the House of Commons or participate in debates, I will continue to raise issues with Minister’s either by writing to them or speaking to them directly.”

“Lord Commissioner is more of a behind the scenes role which is why I will not be as visible in the House as previously but as part of the Government I should have greater influence than in opposition. I would like to assure my constituents that I will continue to speak out on behalf of them and the best interests of Rochford and Southend East.”

James’ new role will require him to work longer hours in the House of Commons requiring him to be in early to plan for the business of the day and often leave after the house has finished sitting. Local residents may often see him sitting on the Government frontbench of the House of Commons when he is on ‘bench duty’ where the whips take turn to man the Government benches.