Graham Stuart MP marked 20 years representing Beverley and Holderness in Parliament by joining the BBC Question Time panel in Hull - just miles from where he won re-election last July by a razor-thin margin of 124 votes.
The veteran local campaigner spoke out on a range of issues affecting residents, including the Winter Fuel Cut, Stamp Duty hike, the recent Mayoral election, Net Zero, farming, higher education, and the performance of both major parties.
On the programme, Graham was candid about Conservative failings in government but made clear Labour’s policies pose an even greater threat to working people.
He challenged Labour’s plans for Net Zero, warning they are already putting hundreds of jobs at risk in Hull and the East Riding. He also raised alarm over the potential impact of a US trade deal on local businesses—especially the UK’s bioethanol industry, which could face destruction under current proposals.
Since his re-election, Graham has campaigned hard on local priorities:
- Securing action on Humber Bank sea defences
- Opening a new Banking Hub in Withernsea
- Backing local farmers against the so-called Family Farm Tax
- Defending pensioners from the Winter Fuel Cut
- Launching a petition to save £2 bus fares
- Fighting for fairer access to STEM careers
Graham Stuart, Member of Parliament for Beverley and Holderness, commented, “I came incredibly close to losing my seat to Labour last year – and I don’t think anyone voted Labour to make pensioners freeze, see fewer jobs for British people and cause farmers to contemplate suicide so they don’t have to pay the Family Farm Tax.
“It was clear that the audience in Hull, which had more people who voted Labour than any other party, wasn’t impressed by Labour’s record in office.
“The people of Beverley and Holderness deserve a better government than the one we have – and I’ll work hard in Parliament to represent you.”