Local Conservatives were entertained by shadow Minister of Arts and Spectator Editor Boris Johnson MP at their annual Parliamentary Dinner in the House of Commons last week.

The MP for Henley-on-Thames, and regular on TV’s current affairs quiz ' Have I Got News For You?' was welcomed by Conservative Parliamentary Spokesman for Hastings & Rye, Mark Coote, and the President of the local Association, Baroness Janet Fookes, gave the vote of thanks.

Boris said he looked forward to Hastings & Rye having a Conservative MP in the future and lambasted the Government on its over-weaning interference in the lives of ordinary citizens. He criticised Labour for over-regulation and said people wanted to enjoy greater freedom and independence.

Neighbouring MP from Bexhill & Battle, Gregory Barker, also made an appearance at the event and welcomed guests from the Hastings and Rye area.

8th June 2004