Lymington Times – 10 January 2025

A New Forest MP has been thanked for his "exemplary" work as he steps down as the chairman of Parliament's Intelligence and Security Committee. Sir Julian Lewis, who represents New Forest East, has held the position for four years.

Speaking in the Commons Chamber last week, he said it had been and "interesting" tenure, explaining it got off to a "controversial" start when the then Prime Minister delayed its reconstitution by seven months, and then proceeded to try to impose a chairman on the Committee rather than the role being chosen by members.

Sir Jeremy Wright, a member of the Committee, thanked Sir Julian for his work as chair. He said:

"This is an important Committee, as he knows better than anyone. It does a considerable service to the House, and he has done a considerable service to the House himself in serving on it with the skill with which he has over nearly a decade."

Leader of the House of Commons, Lucy Powell, added:

"May I take this opportunity to pass on my thanks. We are incredibly grateful for your work, and I want to put that on the record."