Visit by Lee Dillon

Newbury MP - Lee Dillon - Visits Trinity Students

On Friday 12th September, Trinity School was delighted to welcome Newbury’s elected MP, Lee Dillon. Sixth form and citizenship students engaged with Dillon, where he offered a candid and wide-ranging discussion on politics, policy, and his personal values. Newly elected in July, Dillon spoke passionately about his journey from local activism to Parliament, and the challenges and hopes he holds for his constituency.

At just ten years old, Dillon’s political progression began when he led a door-to-door petition to save his local play area. This early spark drove him to seek change throughout his life - now being directed in governmental debates. As a member of select committees on housing and the environment, he’s tackling issues from sewage in the River Kennet to the cost-of-living crisis, primarily in West Berkshire. He emphasised his “right and duty” to help surrounding constituencies, citing recent casework including visa support for a student hoping to attend university, and advocacy on pressing matters like aid in Gaza and animal welfare across the UK.

“Changing lives through individual casework is one of the most rewarding parts of the job,” he voiced.

On environmental concerns outlined by students, Dillion praised the work of Action for the River Kennet, noting that while progress is slow due to budget constraints, community-led efforts continue to make a difference. Dillon outlined plans to support Newbury’s small businesses through business rates reform, digital service tax and restructuring electricity costs. Ultimately, calling for a fairer system that benefits local business establishments.

Dillon shared his views on youth empowerment and what the Liberal Democrats offer for young people. He began reciting a story of devolving budgets to youth councils, emphasising the importance of youth involvement in politics, whilst reinforcing that action should be taken as opposed to just talking around the subject. He acknowledged that the Liberal Democrat party needs to adapt to changing circumstances, outlining collaboration in place of division: “We don’t make promises we can’t keep; we work together on shared priorities.”

To end the session, Dillon opened the floor to students. Discussions surrounding topical concerns such as, youth exposure on social media, youth access to vaping, and the complexities of merging constituency funding were all vocalised by Trinity students.

Despite the demands of public office, Dillon finds balance in family life: “You’re never used to the life you’ve never had,” he reflected, acknowledging the personal sacrifices of political service. He credited his father, a trade union official, as his political icon.

In a time of ever-changing political landscapes, Dillon’s visit offered students a glimpse into local leadership and a reminder that listening, learning, and community action still holds value.

Maisie Day (Year 13)