Michael Whitney News
Michael Whitney
Michael Whitney Freer is a British Conservative Party politician and former banker who has served as the Member of Parliament (MP) for the constituency of Finchley and Golders Green since 2010. Freer was born on May 29, 1960, in Manchester, England. Before his political career, Freer worked in various roles, including in the financial sector at Barclays Bank as an "Area Performance Manager." He also had experience in the fast-food industry, working for chains like Pizzaland, Pizza Hut, and KFC.
Freer’s political journey began when he was elected to Barnet Council in 1990, representing the St. Paul’s ward. He later became the leader of the council and was involved in significant initiatives like the “Future Shape” model for local government delivery in the London Borough of Barnet. Freer’s political career continued to evolve, leading him to contest the Harrow West constituency in the 2005 general election before being elected as the MP for Finchley and Golders Green in 2010. Throughout his tenure, Freer held various government positions and faced security threats, ultimately deciding not to seek re-election due to concerns over his safety.
During his political career, Michael Whitney Freer received the “Banker of the Year” award in 2008 from Private Eye’s Rotten Borough Awards for his role in the recovery of £27.4 million of council taxpayers’ money following the collapse of Icelandic banks Glitnir and Landsbanki, in which Barnet Council had invested. Additionally, In 2009, Freer announced a new model of local government delivery for the London Borough of Barnet, called “Future Shape,” which he stated could save Barnet Council £24 million a year. The scheme has been dubbed easyCouncil because of its similarity to easyJet’s business model.
Freer’s political views have been described as generally aligning with the Conservative party, though he has faced some criticism from within his party. In 2014, he resigned as a parliamentary private secretary to vote against a backbench motion recognizing Palestinian statehood. Freer has faced some security concerns during his time as an MP, including an incident in 2011 where he was the target of “a disturbance” at a constituency surgery in a mosque and a suspected arson attack on his constituency office in 2023. In January 2024, Freer announced that he would not seek re-election at the next general election, citing concerns over his safety.
Overall, Michael Freer’s political career has spanned over a decade, during which he has held various government positions and faced both praise and criticism for his political views and actions. His decision not to run for re-election suggests a shift in his priorities, potentially driven by the security concerns he has faced in recent years.
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Statements
On September 3, 2019, at the House of Commons in London, United Kingdom, Michael Freer, the Conservative Member of Parliament for Finchley and Golders Green, made a statement regarding Brexit during a parliamentary session. During his address, he emphasized his stance on the Brexit process and the importance of respecting the referendum result. Freer stated, “I have never supported leaving the EU without a deal and believe the best way to avoid a no-deal scenario is to secure a deal.” This statement reflects his commitment to finding a negotiated solution to the Brexit impasse while upholding the democratic outcome of the referendum.
On April 29, 2020, during a press briefing in London, UK, Mike Freer, a member of the UK government, emphasized the government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, specifically the “Healthcare Resilience Investment” project. Freer stated, “The government is committed to tackling the COVID-19 pandemic head-on, working tirelessly to protect citizens’ health and support the economy through these challenging times.” This statement underscored the government’s dedication to addressing the pandemic’s impacts on public health and the economy. The briefing served as a platform for the government to communicate its strategies and actions to the public. Freer played a role in ensuring transparency and disseminating crucial information during this critical period.
On September 28, 2022, in London, UK, Mike Freer, Member of Parliament, released a comprehensive statement outlining his strong stance on environmental conservation and sustainable development. In his address, Freer passionately discussed the pressing need for proactive measures to combat climate change and safeguard natural resources, emphasizing the critical importance of immediate action. He proposed eco-friendly policies to reduce carbon emissions and promote green technologies, highlighting the “Green Future Initiative” as a key investment project. Freer stated, “We are at a critical juncture in our fight against climate change. The time for action is now.” This statement underscores Freer’s dedication to environmental advocacy and his commitment to driving meaningful change through legislative action.
On March 15, 2023, in London, United Kingdom, Mike Freer, Member of Parliament, issued a statement highlighting the importance of community engagement in policy-making. He emphasized the need for constituents’ active involvement in shaping effective legislation that addresses local needs. Freer said, “Active participation from constituents is essential in crafting legislation that truly serves the needs of our local communities.” He commended recent community-driven initiatives and encouraged continued collaboration to drive positive change, reflecting his commitment to grassroots involvement and responsive governance.
On May 5, 2023, at the House of Commons in London, during a debate on healthcare funding, Mike Freer delivered a statement emphasizing the critical importance of prioritizing the well-being of citizens through efficient resource allocation in healthcare. He stated, “On this crucial issue of healthcare funding, we must prioritize the well-being of our citizens. As we move forward, we must allocate resources efficiently to ensure access to quality care for all. I will continue to advocate for sustainable healthcare solutions that benefit our communities.” Freer’s dedication to promoting equitable and effective healthcare initiatives reflects his concern for the population’s welfare and his proactive approach to addressing societal issues.
Speeches
On February 21, 2022, in London, United Kingdom, Michael Whitney Freer delivered a speech during an Emergency Summit on the escalating tensions between Ukraine and Russia. Amidst growing concerns of a potential Russian invasion, Freer meticulously dissected the intricate geopolitical dynamics at play, focusing on Russian President Vladimir Putin’s denial of Ukrainian statehood. He stated, “The world is watching as the delicate balance of power in Eastern Europe teeters on the brink of conflict.” Additionally, his press release revealed a foiled Russian plot to assassinate Ukrainian officials, further intensifying the already precarious situation between the two nations. As part of the Peace and Stability Initiative, a £50 million investment was announced to support diplomatic efforts and peace-building measures in the region.
On March 15, 2022, at a community center in London, UK, Mike Freer, the MP for Finchley and Golders Green, delivered a speech emphasizing his commitment to his constituents. Freer stated, “As your representative in Parliament, my top priority is to ensure the voices and concerns of the people of Finchley and Golders Green are heard loud and clear.” This statement underscored Freer’s dedication to being a strong advocate for his constituents. During the speech, Freer also highlighted his support for the “Finchley Regeneration Project,” a major investment initiative aimed at revitalizing local infrastructure and supporting small businesses. Freer’s remarks demonstrated his focus on addressing the needs and priorities of the people he represents in Parliament.
In Tel Aviv, Israel, on May 15, 2023, Michael Whitney Freer delivered a speech and press release addressing the urgent need for a ceasefire amidst the Gaza and Rafah Border Crisis. Emphasizing the dire situation in Gaza, Freer stated, “The situation in Gaza is dire, and we must act swiftly to ensure the safety and well-being of all civilians caught in the crossfire.” The press release detailed Israel’s military seizing control of the Gaza side of the Rafah border, highlighting the complexities of balancing military actions with diplomatic efforts. Additionally, the government announced a $50 million humanitarian aid package to support the “Rebuilding Gaza Infrastructure” project, demonstrating a commitment to addressing the crisis and fostering long-term stability in the region.
On June 15, 2023, at a business forum in Finchley, UK, Mike Freer, the Conservative MP for Finchley and Golders Green, delivered a speech on Economic Development. Freer emphasized, “Investing in our community’s infrastructure, skills, and innovation is crucial to driving sustainable development and creating opportunities for all.” He highlighted the need for public-private partnerships to stimulate economic activity and job creation, outlining a vision for a thriving local economy. Earlier that month, Freer had visited a new £50 million manufacturing facility in Finchley, set to create over 200 jobs, which he praised as a testament to the area’s potential and the government’s commitment to fostering business growth.
On November 13, 2023, at The Guildhall, London, during the annual Conservative Party Conference, Michael Whitney Freer, a British Conservative Party politician, delivered a speech and press release addressing the significant threats to his safety that ultimately led to his decision not to stand for re-election. The speech highlighted the significant threats to his safety, including past targeting by extremist groups and the alarming incident involving the individual who later murdered Sir David Amess. Freer’s candid account revealed the toll these threats took on him and his family, emphasizing the pervasive nature of violence and intimidation faced by MPs. As he stated, “The constant fear and anxiety that comes with being a target is a heavy burden to bear.” The press release eloquently articulated the personal struggles and security concerns that ultimately led to his difficult decision to step down as the Conservative parliamentary candidate for Finchley & Golders Green.
On December 15, 2023, at The Guildhall in London, during the Economic Summit 2023, Mike Freer delivered a compelling speech emphasizing the critical role of a strong economy in shaping society. He highlighted the economy as the cornerstone for societal development, stressing the need for an environment that nurtures business growth, innovation, and investment while advocating for the reduction of regulatory burdens. Freer’s quote, “A strong economy is not just about numbers on a spreadsheet; it’s about the lives of real people,” resonated with the audience, encapsulating the essence of his message. His address underscored the importance of personal autonomy, freedom of expression, and the pivotal role of a robust economy in ensuring societal well-being.
Who is Michael Whitney ?
Michael John Freer, born on May 29, 1960, in Manchester, United Kingdom, studied accountancy and business law at the University of Stirling. Despite not graduating with a degree, he has pursued a successful career in politics. Freer’s wife, Angelo Crolla, is a significant part of his personal life. Currently, Freer holds the position of Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Courts and Legal Services, a role he has been dedicated to since September 2022. Serving as the Member of Parliament for Finchley and Golders Green since May 2010, Freer has a background in banking and has held various governmental positions, including Minister for Exports and Minister for Equalities. Known for his active involvement in his constituency and his work on legal services, court administration, and criminal justice issues, Freer is recognized for his commitment to public service and governance. His leadership roles in Barnet Council and as a councilor for the Church End and St Paul’s wards in Finchley highlight his dedication to serving the community.Throughout his political career, Freer has faced various opponents and challenges. In the 2005 general election, he competed against Gareth Thomas, the Labour MP, for the Harrow West constituency, finishing second. In the 2019 election, he triumphed over a Liberal Democrat challenger but experienced a decrease in his vote share. Freer has encountered threats from extremist groups like “Muslims Against Crusades” and dealt with incidents such as an arson attack on his constituency office. Additionally, the stalking by Ali Harbi Ali, the individual who tragically killed MP David Amess, added to the safety concerns Freer has navigated in his political journey.Michael Whitney Freer’s biography is illustrated in the table below.| Personal Information | |
| Full Name | Michael Whitney Freer |
| Birthday | 29 May 1960 (age 63) |
| Spouse | Angelo Crolla |
| Position | Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Courts and Legal Services |
| Political Party | Conservative |
| Education | University of Stirling, North Chadderton School, Richard Rose Central Academy |
| Political Career | |||
| Position | Term | Preceded by | Succeeded by |
| Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Courts and Legal Services | 20 September 2022 | Office established | |
| Parliamentary Under-Secretary of Statefor Exports | 16 September 2021 – 6 July 2022 | Graham Stuart | Andrew Griffith |
| Parliamentary Under-Secretary of Statefor Equalities | 16 September 2021 – 6 July 2022 | Office established | Amanda Solloway |
| Comptroller of the Household | 16 December 2019 – 16 September 2021 | Jeremy Quin | Marcus Jones |
| Lord Commissioner of the Treasury | 26 July 2018 – 16 December 2019 | Andrew Stephenson | Iain Stewart |
| Member of Parliamentfor Finchley and Golders Green | 6 May 2010 | Rudi Vis |
Mike Freer Family
Mike Freer grew up in Manchester, United Kingdom. Part of his childhood was spent in a council house, which was later bought by his parents under the Conservative government’s Right to Buy policy. Mike Freer’s mother’s name is Marian Freer. Mrs. Freer had traveled down from her home in Annan, Scotland, to be at last week’s General Election count. She revealed to the gathered pack of journalists that the family, including Mike’s late father, were all staunch Labour supporters, meaning Conservative Mike was the political black sheep. ‘But if his dad were here now, he would be very proud of him,’ she said. ‘I am very proud of him because it has been an ambition of his for a long while.’Mike Freer is openly gay and lives with his husband, Angelo Crolla, in Finchley, North London. Mike Freer’s husband is Angelo Crolla. They met and married in a civil partnership in January 2007. Later, in January 2015, they converted their civil partnership into a marriage. Their relationship has been a significant aspect of Freer’s personal life, reflecting his commitment to his partner and the LGBTQ+ community.Mike Freerr educationFreer’s educational journey began at Chadderton Grammar School for Boys in Manchester, United Kingdom. He then continued his studies at St Aidan’s County High School (now Richard Rose Central Academy) in Carlisle, United Kingdom.After his secondary education, Freer pursued studies in accountancy and business law at the University of Stirling in Stirling, Scotland. However, he did not graduate with a degree from the University of Stirling.Mike Freer’s political career
Mike Freer’s political career began in 1990 when he was first elected to Barnet Council as a Conservative for the St. Paul’s ward, winning the seat from Labour. However, he lost the seat back to Labour in 1994 and went on to lose in the East Finchley ward in 1998. He was re-elected to the council, for the Church End ward, in 2002. In 2006, he was unanimously elected leader of the Barnet Council by his party, replacing Brian Salinger as Conservative group leader, having previously been Salinger’s deputy.Freer was elected as the Member of Parliament (MP) for the constituency of Finchley and Golders Green at the 2010 general election. He was re-elected as MP for Finchley and Golders Green at the 2015 general election, the 2017 snap general election, and the 2019 general election.During his parliamentary career, Freer has held several roles. From 2015 to 2017, he served as a Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Secretary of State for Transport. In June 2017, he was appointed as an Assistant Government Whip. In July 2018, he was appointed Lord Commissioner of the Treasury. In December 2019, he was promoted to Comptroller of the Household in the second Johnson ministry. From September 2021 to July 2022, he served as the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Exports at the Department for International Trade. Since September 2022, he has been the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Courts and Legal Services.Mike Freer’s political views and stances cover a range of issues. In 2008, he was ranked 99th on The Jewish Chronicle’s list of the 100 most powerful influences on the Jewish community, despite not being Jewish himself. Freer is a member of the Conservative Friends of Israel (CFI) group. In 2014, he resigned from his role as a parliamentary private secretary to vote against a motion recognizing Palestine as a state alongside Israel, arguing that a two-state solution should be the end goal, not the starting point.When a Labour Party amendment was proposed in 2016 to require private landlords to make homes “fit for human habitation,” Freer was one of 72 Conservative MPs who voted against it, likely due to his income from renting out property. Before the 2016 Brexit referendum, Freer was opposed to the UK leaving the European Union.Freer has also been vocal in his defense of former Prime Minister Theresa May during the Windrush scandal in 2018, rejecting claims of the Conservative Party’s involvement. In 2019, he was one of 15 Conservative MPs to vote in favor of a second referendum, or “People’s Vote,” on the UK’s EU membership.Political Party of Mike Freer
Mike Freer joined the Conservative Party in 2002 when he was re-elected as a councilor on Barnet Council. Within the party, he has held various roles and responsibilities over the years.From 2013 to 2015, Freer served as the Vice-Chairman of the Conservative Party, specifically focusing on Equalities/LGBT issues. Additionally, he has been appointed to different governmental positions, including Comptroller of the Household, Lord Commissioner of the Treasury, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Exports, and more recently, as the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Courts and Legal Services since September 2022.Freer’s active roles within the Conservative Party have contributed to the party’s operations and effectiveness. Serving in various governmental positions demonstrates his dedication to supporting the party’s policies and initiatives. Freer’s contributions as a Parliamentary Private Secretary and in other roles have helped to advance the party’s agenda and ensure effective governance. His alignment with the party’s values and his ability to represent its interests have been beneficial in promoting the Conservative Party’s objectives and engaging with diverse segments of society.Mike Freer election results
In the 2010 general election, Mike Freer successfully contested and won the Finchley and Golders Green constituency, securing victory with 46% of the vote and a majority of 5,809. His main competitors were Alison Moore of the Labour Party, who received 16,039 votes (31.3%), and Monroe Palmer of the Liberal Democrats, who garnered 14,100 votes (27.5%).Moving to the 2015 general election, Freer was re-elected as the Member of Parliament for Finchley and Golders Green, winning with 49.5% of the vote and a majority of 5,662. His main competitors were Sarah Sackman of the Labour Party, who received 19,305 votes (34.9%), and Jonathan Davies of the Liberal Democrats, who secured 8,305 votes (15%).In the 2017 general election, Freer was once again re-elected as the Member of Parliament for Finchley and Golders Green, winning with 47% of the vote and a majority of 1,657. The main competitors in this election were Jeremy Newmark of the Labour Party, who received 24,599 votes (45.3%), and Jonathan Davies of the Liberal Democrats, who secured 6,875 votes (12.7%).Finally, in the 2019 general election, Freer consolidated his position, winning the Finchley and Golders Green seat with 43.8% of the vote and a majority of 6,562. His main competitors were Luciana Berger of the Liberal Democrats, who received 17,600 votes (31.9%), and Ross Houston of the Labour Party, who secured 13,347 votes (24.2%).These election results underscore Freer’s consistent performance in the constituency, showcasing his ability to secure victories against strong competition from Labour and the Liberal Democrats over multiple election cycles. His enduring support within the Finchley and Golders Green constituency is evident through his successful re-elections and varying majorities over the years.Mike Freer policies
In 2021, the Conservative Party, led by Mike Freer, introduced the New Education Policy (NEP) in the United Kingdom. This policy overhaul, implemented from 2021 to 2023, focuses on elevating education quality by mandating educators to hold bachelor’s degrees and engage in ongoing professional development. Emphasizing student-centered instruction, the NEP promotes holistic education through experiential learning and technology integration. By offering tailored learning approaches and fostering lifelong learning, the policy aims to benefit students. Freer emphasized, “The New Education Policy is pivotal in aligning our education system with the evolving demands of the 21st century, empowering students to become future leaders and problem-solvers.”In October 2022, Mike Freer, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Courts and Legal Services, shaped the UK’s healthcare policy in England. Freer has focused on spearheading the “Mental Health Wellbeing Initiative,” a significant investment project aimed at improving mental health services, increasing funding for mental health research, and enhancing support for individuals with mental health conditions. As he stated, “Improving mental health support is a key priority for the Conservative government. We are committed to investing in research, expanding access to services, and destigmatizing mental health challenges to ensure everyone in the UK can access the care they need.” This policy initiative reflects the Conservative Party’s commitment to addressing the growing mental health crisis and providing comprehensive support for individuals and communities across England.In March 2023, in Germany, Mike Freer voiced support for robust climate policies outlined in the draft Climate Action Programme. Emphasizing initiatives to accelerate renewables expansion, enhance energy efficiency in buildings, and decarbonize industries, Freer highlighted the importance of a comprehensive approach to tackle climate change. He stated, “Tackling climate change requires a comprehensive and coordinated approach across all sectors.” Freer endorsed measures aiming for an 80% share of power consumption from renewables by 2030 and significant decarbonization targets under the “Green Energy for All” investment project. His commitment underscores driving the transition to a low-carbon economy and fostering a sustainable future.Mike Freer Controversies
In October 2011, Mike Freer, a British Conservative Party politician, faced a disturbance at a constituency surgery held in a mosque in Finchley, London, by members of the group Muslims Against Crusades. Reflecting on the incident, Freer stated, “Engaging with diverse communities can present unique challenges, but we must continue to foster open dialogue and understanding.” This event highlighted the complexities and tensions arising when elected representatives interact with various community groups.On October 15, 2019, in Finchley, Freer hosted a crocus-planting ceremony to honor the 1.5 million Holocaust victims. However, this event faced criticism from Matt Staples, the Chair of the local Labour Party, who accused Freer of “politicizing the event by not inviting representatives from across the political spectrum.” Freer responded, “It is important to commemorate such solemn events inclusively, and I regret if any perceived exclusion occurred.”Furthermore, in September 2021, it was revealed that Ali Harbi Ali, the convicted murderer of David Amess, had visited Freer’s constituency office in Finchley on September 17, 2021. Freer stated, “I was not present at the time as I was attending other meetings, but this incident has raised important questions about security protocols and interactions with potentially dangerous individuals.” This controversy highlighted the need for robust security measures and the challenges faced by elected representatives in ensuring the safety of their constituents.Mike Freer facts
- Mike Freer was born on July 29, 1960, in Finchley, London. He attended the University of Warwick, where he studied Politics and Sociology.
- Freer started his political career as a councilor in the London Borough of Barnet in 1990, eventually becoming the Leader of the Council in 2006.
- In 2010, Freer was elected as the Member of Parliament for Finchley and Golders Green, succeeding the former Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher.
- Freer has held various roles within the Conservative Party, including Vice-Chairman with a focus on Equalities and LGBTQ+ issues from 2013 to 2015.
- Throughout his career, Freer has been known for advocating policies that support economic growth, reduce taxes, and promote business development.
- Freer has faced controversies, including disturbances at constituency surgeries, criticism of event organization, and interactions with convicted individuals.
- In 2021, Freer was appointed as the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Exports and the Minister for Equalities, showcasing his diverse policy interests.
- Freer has been actively involved in engaging with diverse communities, hosting events, and participating in local initiatives to connect with constituents.
- Freer has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, working to promote equality and inclusion within the Conservative Party and the government.
- Known for his dedication to serving the people of Finchley and Golders Green, Freer has focused on addressing local issues, supporting community projects, and representing his constituents in Parliament.
Mike Freer Contact details
- Twitter: Mike Freer Twitter
- LinkedIn: Mike Freer LinkedIn
- Website: Mike Freer Website
- Facebook: Mike Freer Facebook
- Phone: 0208 445 5875
- Email: mike.freer.mp@parliament.uk
- Constituency Office:212 Ballards Lane, Finchley, N3 2LX
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