Mark Eastwood

Conservative Mark Eastwood took Dewsbury from Labour’s Paula Sherriff at the 2019 general election, winning with a majority of 1,561. Eastwood grew up in the same area that he represents – his mother was a nurse at Dewsbury hospital for twenty-five years. Eastwood joined the Conservative party when he was 17 and has stood on for the party on a number of occasions – notably, he has run for the Dewsbury East ward for Kirklees council six times, in his maiden speech, Eastwood noted that one local newspaper had dubbed him “the perennial loser” prior to his victory in 2019. His maiden speech being in June 2020 meant that there was much focus on covid-19. Eastwood stated, “after our experience with coronavirus, the definition of “hero” has grown. We have seen heroes emerge all over the country. Alongside our NHS and emergency staff, there are the people who have kept us fed, cared for us, operated our public transport and those who have ensured we can still access the goods and services we rely on.” He went on to pay tribute to some particular “heroes” within his constituency. Eastwood currently sits on the regulatory reform committee and the committee on the future relationship with the European Union. He is also a member of the APPGson British muslims, the furniture industry and football – as well as being a member of the parliamentary football club.

Hot Seat

What is your proudest political achievement to date, both at a constituency and national level?

Nationally: delivering on the EU referendum result and getting Brexit done. Constituency: assisting businesses in securing grants and loans during COVID 19 including the Dewsbury Rams, a pillar of the community.

Which foreign affairs issue is of most concern to you, or overlooked?

Human rights abuses in Kashmir.

Is there an MP from a different party you most admire or enjoy working with?

Hilary Benn.

Is there a piece of music that it especially meaningful to you?

The Verve, Lucky Man – which was played at my wedding.

What entertainment do you enjoy on a free evening?

A music gig. My favourite recent TV show was Peaky Blinders.