Lee Dillon MP for Newbury
@leedillonmp
Liberal Democrat MP for Newbury. Passionate about housing, the NHS, and supporting local communities.
Applications for my two new job roles close on Friday. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, have excellent organisational and communication skills, and are interested in UK politics, find out more: Executive Assistant role: buff.ly/MkZgmyF Parliamentary Intern role: buff.ly/xkdYwIB
Our rivers and chalk streams have been treated as open sewers for too long. Andy Burnham has an opportunity to deliver the change communities like ours have been demanding for years. That's why I support the Liberal Democrats' call for an overhaul of the water industry. More: buff.ly/oM6iI2j
I have spoken with the owner of Englefield Estate about difficulties residents were facing getting a refund for the cancelled Heritage Live Festival at Englefield House. I'm pleased to confirm that refunds are now being processed automatically through the ticket agent used. More: buff.ly/k6j1vpu
Schools across Newbury and West Berkshire can now sign up for UK Parliament Week 2026. Taking place from 23–29 November 2026, UK Parliament Week is a fantastic opportunity for students to explore democracy and discover how they can make their voices heard. Sign up: buff.ly/ha7Vu5H
Last week, Parliament debated the future of British horseracing. The industry is a vital part of our rural heritage across Newbury and West Berkshire, and I'll keep pushing with the equestrian community and colleagues to push forward my Horse and Rider Road Safety campaign. More: buff.ly/3wtjwa7
NHS maternity and neonatal services need urgent, system-wide improvement. I've raised this before, backing a plan for 24/7 consultant cover, one-to-one midwifery care in labour, and investment in facilities. Every family deserves safe, compassionate, high-quality care. More: buff.ly/0ZF1aD3
Our high streets are the heart of our towns and villages across Newbury and West Berkshire. They need to be protected, and I challenged the Home Secretary to ensure the new High Street Crime crackdown reaches our rural communities – not just the big cities. More: buff.ly/lqbvTx8
Following news that TG Jones’ restructuring plan may affect Hungerford Post Office, I have written to Post Office Ltd urging them not to agree to any changes in contractual terms that would lead to an earlier closure of the existing branch. I will continue to share updates as I receive them.
I’ve been looking into concerns surrounding AJM Healthcare and the challenges many wheelchair users continue to face across West Berkshire. Reliable wheelchair services are essential for independence and quality of life. I’m working to ensure that improvements are delivered. More: buff.ly/b4f1YVQ
Newbury Pride takes place tomorrow in Victoria Park. I'm sorry that I can't be there this year, but I want to wish everyone attending a fantastic day. Newbury Pride is a brilliant celebration of our community, and I hope the event is a great success.
West Berkshire's farmers help feed the country, support local jobs, and care for our countryside. Last week's debate highlighted the financial pressures many farms face. I'll keep pushing for policies that give farming businesses the confidence and certainty they need. More: buff.ly/zrebR9S
Defra’s new, faster fines for water companies are welcome. But after years of weak regulation, the real test is whether they’re actually used. This must be the start of wider reform that puts clean water and the public interest ahead of profit. More: buff.ly/HYaEKQB
Leasehold reform is finally gaining momentum. I've been pressing ministers through the HCLG Committee to tackle unfair charges, improve transparency, and give homeowners more control over their homes. Last week's Commons debate showed the pressure for change is growing. More: buff.ly/1HK5Ly3
Households using the same amount of energy as last quarter will see their bills rise by around 13%. Energy is not a luxury. It is an essential human need. That’s why the Liberal Democrats’ Essential Energy Guarantee would ensure affordable energy is available to all. More: buff.ly/5TnZ3Sn
The NHS turns 78 today, which is a milestone worth celebrating. But we must also face the reality: hospitals are crumbling, equipment is outdated, and backlogs are soaring. The Royal Berkshire Hospital faces £160m in repairs, potentially rising to £400m by 2037. More: buff.ly/OMDBugX
I’m looking for a new Parliamentary Intern. This is an exciting opportunity to support a busy parliamentary office, providing hands-on hands-on experience in Parliament, supporting legislative, research, and communications work. Apply here: buff.ly/xkdYwIB
Seventeen‑year‑old Chloe from Newbury has cerebral palsy, and she is taking on one of the toughest cycling routes in the UK, from Land’s End to John o’ Groats. If you would like to support Chloe’s fundraising, you can do so here: buff.ly/A7DOggd Wishing Chloe and her family the very best.
Good news for pubs and football fans: the Government has U-turned on its decision to deny pubs extended trading hours on Monday for England's world cup game after calls from the Lib Dems. Pubs can now stay open for England’s match against Mexico. This will be welcome news for fans and pubs.
TG Jones has told the Post Office that changes to their business may affect the Hungerford branch. No closure has been decided, but it creates uncertainty. Hungerford relies on these services, so I’ve written to Post Office Ltd asking for clarity on next steps and timelines. More: buff.ly/roUgYv9
June looked a little different after a knee injury, but work didn't stop. This month's highlights include progress on housing reform, movement on unfair CIL charges, protecting our chalk streams, fighting for Thatcham Post Office, analysing hundreds of SEND survey responses. More: buff.ly/fhkop3m
Why are so many patients being removed from GP lists? Local GP practices have contacted me about a significant increase in NHS FP69 list-cleansing activity, with some reporting deletion flags equivalent to more than a third of their patient list in a year. More: buff.ly/KHUWF9C
Good news on unfair #CIL charges. After months of our campaigning, the Government has confirmed councils can support homeowners unfairly hit with huge bills due to administrative errors, and is looking at wider reforms. More: buff.ly/440I55Y
Local employers: do you have vacancies you are looking to fill? Employer registrations for my Job Fair are now open, and we are looking for employers from across sectors such as hospitality, retail, construction, logistics, manufacturing and tech. Contact my office to request a stand.
After weeks of hard work from my team and local campaigners to urge Morrisons & the Post Office to maintain this vital service, Thatcham Post Office will stay open until 4 October. Thanks to all who helped ensure this matter received the attention it deserves. More: buff.ly/xjx5Xrb
I’m looking for a new Executive Assistant to join my busy constituency office. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, have excellent organisational skills, and take pride in maintaining accurate records and systems, I would like to hear from you. Apply here: buff.ly/MkZgmyF
Do you want your views on SEND support to be heard? My SEND survey is closing tomorrow. Your response will be used to build evidence to challenge decision‑makers locally and press the Government for better SEND support as reforms are considered. Have your say: buff.ly/XWQmZ4W
The Radio Teleswitch Service will be fully switched off tomorrow, 30 June 2026. Most RTS meters have already been replaced, and disruption has been minimal. If you have any concerns about the switch‑off, please do get in touch with your energy provider.
Today, many constituents are taking part in the Mass Lobby for Trans Equality in Westminster Hall. To everyone who kindly invited me to attend, I’m sorry I’m unable to be there in person. If there is anything my team or I can help with, please do get in touch: buff.ly/DwHVXig
Thatcham level crossing update. After sustained work behind the scenes, Network Rail is considering whether electronic signage could be introduced. It wouldn’t reduce closures, but could help drivers plan ahead - a step in the right direction. More: buff.ly/HRu5rp7
Nature recovery and farming go hand-in-hand. I recently questioned Ministers on what more they must do to roll out collaborative rewilding projects with our world-class farmers. More: buff.ly/QuOVqYz