New Forest East MP Sir Julian Lewis praised for ‘exemplary’ work as he steps down as chair of Parliament’s intelligence and security committee

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 the east of the Forest, has held the position for the past four years.

Speaking in the Commons Chamber last week, he said it had been an “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.

He added: “During my four years in post, the committee produced several substantial reports, including one on extreme right-wing terrorism, a particularly well-received report on China, a substantial report on international partnerships and, although it has not yet been published, a very interesting and comprehensive report on Iran.

“The committee also produced no fewer than four of its annual reports, which surveyed the general landscape of the seven intelligence agencies and other security organisations that it supervises.”

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 or chairing 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, and the thanks of the government and the whole House, for the exemplary work as chair of the committee over many years and in challenging times. We are incredibly grateful for [your] work, and I want to put that on the record.”