Sign in

Max Wilkinson MP

@maxwilkinson.bsky.social
2.7K followers 101 following 431 posts

MP for Cheltenham Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Home Affairs

PostsRepliesMedia
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 16/09/2026
The Golden Valley development has come from strong local work. It will generate thousands of jobs locally & contribute to national cyber security. I asked the First Secretary of State to recognise this local investment & allow proceeds to remain in our community, instead of swiped away to Whitehall.
081
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 15/09/2026
“We need urgent action to save our democracy.” That’s what I told @lbc.co.uk over the weekend when asked about the massive donations to Farage’s Reform party. The government must act now to stop US-style big money buying our politics.
13419
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 10/09/2026
I asked the Health Secretary to intervene in the planning system so people in conservation areas like Cheltenham can cool their homes in hot summers. It’s a health risk that will only get worse. I’m not convinced by her reply, particularly the suggestion we all go to the local community centre.
2124
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 09/09/2026
👨‍🦲👩‍🦲🧑‍🦲
0226
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 08/09/2026
Women and girls deserve to feel and be safe when going about their lives. I've written to Gloucestershire Constabulary to ask that hotspots for anti-social and misogynistic behaviour in Cheltenham be more frequently patrolled. 1/2
Supt. James Glansfield
Cheltenham & Tewkesbury LPA Commander
Crime Prevention & Neighbourhood Policing Lead
Gloucestershire Constabulary
08 September 2026
Dear James
Violence Against Women and Girls and Safer Streets Patrols in Cheltenham
I am writing regarding the ongoing challenge of violence against women and girls in Cheltenham and the importance of maintaining a visible and proactive police presence in areas where concerns have been raised by local residents.
Recent discussions with Gloucestershire Constabulary have underlined the seriousness with which the force approaches offences involving the harassment and intimidation of women. I welcome the steps that are taken to monitor individuals who may present a risk and to ensure that appropriate safeguards are in place to protect the public.
However, this issue extends beyond any individual case. Violence against women and girls remains one of the most significant public safety concerns facing our communities and it demands continued attention from all those responsible for keeping people safe.
I have received reports from local residents regarding anti-social and intimidating behaviour towards women, particularly during the early morning hours. Concerns have been raised about several locations in Cheltenham, including the Lower High Street, The Brewery area and Swindon Road Car Park. These are places through which many women travel on their way to work and to public transport links at times when streets can be relatively quiet and individuals may feel particularly vulnerable.
I have consistently argued that tackling violence against women and girls must be treated as a priority. I strongly endorse the ambition to dramatically reduce such offences and I have been proud to support local initiatives and community campaigns that seek to make Cheltenham a safer place for women and girls. Public confidence depends not only on effective enforcement but also on a visible commitment to prevention and reassurance.For that reason, I am keen to see a sustained and visible police presence in known hotspot areas and at times when concerns are most frequently raised. Visible patrols help deter offending, reassure residents and demonstrate that reports from the community are being taken seriously.
I know that Gloucestershire Constabulary recognises the importance of this issue and I look forward to seeing evidence of continued patrol activity and operational focus in these locations, particularly during the early morning periods identified by local residents.
Please could you confirm that officers will be present in the coming weeks to disrupt this unacceptable behaviour at the known times in identified hotspots?
Thank you for your continued service to our community and for the work undertaken by officers across Cheltenham to keep people safe.
Yours sincerely
Max Wilkinson MP
163
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 08/09/2026
Cheltenham council is still being abolished, but after an announcement by the government this week we don’t know when! I asked the Secretary of State this week to let Gloucestershire get on with the process so councils can get on with planning to protect vital services. 1/2
142
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 02/09/2026
The First Secretary of State told MPs that fire services need more support. I reminded her that Gloucestershire Fire And Rescue Service stands ready to support neighbouring areas suffering wildfires, but that it is suffering extreme financial pressures. 1/2
152
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 25/08/2026
Why have pensioners been effectively trapped for four months on the upper floors of a block of flats in Cheltenham town centre? Because Remus, Fexco and Sarum - the companies in charge of fixing the lift - are failing to do their job.
0114
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 24/08/2026
Live on Reddit answering Cheltenham’s questions 🙋🏻‍♀️🙋🏻‍♂️🙋🏻 Join me here: www.reddit.com/r/cheltenham...
040
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 24/08/2026
🏥 🏥 🏥 Huge news to report about the Big Space Cancer Appeal! Cheltenham Borough Council has given planning approval for the development to go ahead. Massive congratulations to everyone who has contributed so far. Let’s give one last push to get this over the line: justgiving.com/campaign/the...
031
Reposted by Max Wilkinson MP
Liberal Democrats @libdems.org.uk · 20/08/2026
Brexit promised control. Instead, small boat crossings soared and taxpayers face a £5bn bill. A returns deal with Europe could stop the boats and restore control. @maxwilkinson.bsky.social
54618
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 23/08/2026
The first of my Ask Me Anything sessions is happening on Reddit tomorrow (24th) from 5.30pm. If you live in Cheltenham, you can ask questions about issues relating to the town, my work as your MP, national politics, or anything else you’d like to put to me, here: www.reddit.com/r/cheltenham... 1/2
163
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 15/08/2026
Funding pressures from above could mean that the fire station in north west Cheltenham will not be manned overnight. Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service and the County Council have launched a public consultation about this proposed plan. 1/2
372
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 15/08/2026
I enjoyed Parkrun again today. Thanks as always to the organisers and volunteers. I’m acutely aware that the grass at Pittville Park shouldn’t look like this. It’s a clear reminder of the need to redouble efforts to tackle climate change. Short term, let’s all be careful not to create fire risks.
0273
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 08/08/2026
On #SevereMEDay, I stand with everyone living with severe ME and their loved ones. No one should be left without the care, understanding or support they need. The Government must do more to fund research, improve services and end the neglect of people with ME #MissingMillions #DisabilityRights
A dark blue graphic supporting Severe ME Day 2026 on 8 August 2026. It explains that Severe ME is a devastating, complex and life-limiting illness, notes that many people are housebound or bedbound, and calls for greater awareness and action. A highlighted statement says, “I stand with everyone affected by Severe ME and their families.” On the right is a quote from Max Wilkinson MP, Member of Parliament for Cheltenham, calling for meaningful government action and better care and support. Along the bottom are logos and website addresses for The ME Association, Action for M.E., ME Research UK, The 25% ME Group, and #MEAction UK.
0174
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 03/08/2026
It’s time for the Cheltenham Cricket Festival - the oldest cricket festival in the world starts this weekend. You can get your tickets here: www.gloscricket.co.uk/towergate-ch...
2103
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 24/07/2026
FIRST PORT - UPDATE I’m genuinely shocked by what I heard last night. We are forming the Cheltenham First Port Action Group. This follows ongoing and significant concerns about the way First Port conducts business in Cheltenham. Many serious concerns were raised at the public meeting I hosted. 1/3
275
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 18/07/2026
Parliament has broken up for the summer, but my work continues in Cheltenham….starting with the nation’s most successful free public health initiative: parkrun. Thanks to all the volunteers and runners for a warm welcome in Pittville Park.
1131
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 16/07/2026
My question to the Secretary of State today, following the news Cheltenham council will be abolished and replaced by a single council for the whole of Gloucestershire. I remain concerned about the future delivery of local services.
263
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 15/07/2026
When Andy Burnham takes office, he will say much about empowering regions and local communities. But, as I told BBC Politics West this week, there is more outside London than Manchester. 1/2
262
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 13/07/2026
After years of build-up it was great to be on-site to break ground at the Golden Valley UK development on Friday. The site will generate thousands of jobs in cyber & tech for Cheltenham, while helping our nation’s defence & resilience. 1/2
180
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 09/07/2026
Six weeks ago Robert Jenrick asked “where are we?” I told him. Now, I’ve used his words as a reminder of how the Brexit failures of the Tories and Reform are contributing to ruined holidays for British people. He’s been in both parties - so he’ll be well aware of the mess that’s been created.
0195
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 07/07/2026
We shouldn’t indulge Nigel Farage’s tantrum. We are challenging Labour, the Tories and the Green Party to step aside so Nigel looks daft fighting his pointless by-election on his own.
23111
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 03/07/2026
Thank you to everyone who attended my public meeting last night to talk about the state of our roads. Thanks also to @gloucestershirecc.bsky.social's highways department for answering your questions and sharing plans for progress. 1/2
131
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 03/07/2026
BIG SPACE CANCER APPEAL - CAMPAIGN UPDATE Just out from a meeting with Dr Sam Guglani & Dr Charles Candish, & pleased to share that progress is being made on this important campaign. If you've donated, thank you. If you would like to support the appeal head to: www.justgiving.com/campaign/the...
021
Reposted by Max Wilkinson MP
Liberal Democrats @libdems.org.uk · 02/07/2026
Score for Liberal Democrat Home Affairs spokesperson @maxwilkinson.bsky.social The Government is now letting pubs stay open for this weekend’s game after he raised the issue in Parliament today! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿
44717
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 02/07/2026
⚽I asked ministers to give a blanket licensing exemption to allow pubs to stay open for the Mexico game in the early hours of Monday morning. Sadly, it sounds like the government’s answer is more Mike Bassett than Alf Ramsey. #WorldCup #WorldCup2026
095
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 02/07/2026
Home insurance companies shouldn’t be allowed to use small print to get out of responsibilities. Sadly, that’s what happened to Cheltenham resident Jackie, whose story I shared yesterday. I'm pleased the Minister accepted my suggestion to remind companies of their responsibility to customers.
182
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 23/06/2026
The presumptive next PM Andy Burnham has made a career out of bemoaning regional funding inequality. I agree with him, which is why I hope the government will deal with the massive funding inequality experienced by Cheltenham schools.
1113
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 22/06/2026
People are rightly sick of the revolving door at 10 Downing Street.
Labour is about to give us a second
PM just two years into government.
Whoever comes next must fix our broken politics and address the fundamental problems holding our country back - the nonsensical trade barriers with our biggest economic partner, the cost of living crisis and the disempowerment felt by communities everywhere. They will need to take seriously the challenges in defence and security, too.
2176
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 15/06/2026
We had some good news about our online safety campaigns today. Thank you to everyone who has supported the efforts - not least mum and Cheltenham campaigner Ellen Roome, whose courage and determination is so inspiring.
142
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 12/06/2026
Last week, I was a late substitute in the Commons vs Lords tug of war, in aid of @macmillancancer.bsky.social. I found myself sandwiched between two extremely strong military vets, Labour's Al Carns & Conservative Ben Obese-Jecty, on a team captained by former Foreign Sec James Cleverly. 1/2
261
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 09/06/2026
Leckhampton Hill is now a National Nature Reserve. That designation, awarded by King Charles III, follows so much hard work by big-hearted volunteers from the Friends of Leckhampton Hill and Charlton Kings Common. I was proud to attend the formal designation ceremony last week.
0103
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 08/06/2026
The Brexit given to us by Nigel Farage and the Tories has failed. But almost a decade on, ministers are still ignoring the reality of the impact it’s had on everything from our economy to immigration. 1/2
56316
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 08/06/2026
Today in Parliament I called on the Home Secretary to join me in telling Vice President JD Vance and Trump’s US Department of Justice to stay out of British politics, our policing and to respect victims of crime like the Nowak family. I think she agreed with me. What do you think?
03112
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 01/06/2026
The government promised to hand power back to communities. But their current approach to devolution involves scrapping local councils like Cheltenham and placing power in the hands of regional mayors who will be more distant from communities. 1/2
1114
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 22/05/2026
Our democracy can only work if every vote counts. Five-party politics is firmly established in the UK (6 in Scotland & Wales). Labour & Conservatives must face reality: people demand proportional voting. I challenged the government on electoral reform so voices are heard equally & seats match votes.
3323
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 20/05/2026
It’s time for a grown up discussion about the future of our nation and our role in the world. My contribution to the King’s Speech debates focused on the problems we are still being caused by the Brexit given to us by Nigel Farage and the Conservatives. 1/3
15416
Reposted by Max Wilkinson MP
Liberal Democrats @libdems.org.uk · 20/05/2026
A UK-EU Customs Union is a vital first step in rebuilding our relationship with Europe. MPs must be free to vote for what is best for our economy and our country. @eddavey.libdems.org.uk has written to the PM urging him to give Labour MPs a free vote on our amendment to the King’s Speech tonight.
25824
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 19/05/2026
It was kind of Robert Jenrick to set me up for an obvious joke at his expense.
2143045873
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 16/05/2026
🤰🏻Maternity campaign win 👶 This week, after a board meeting of the local health trust, we got the news we’ve been waiting to hear for a long time: the labour & births service at Cheltenham General Hospital will be restored this year. Well done to everyone who has been involved in our campaign.
1186
Reposted by Max Wilkinson MP
Liberal Democrats @libdems.org.uk · 16/05/2026
"I was under no illusion that if I had been given gifts and donations, then I should declare them." @maxwilkinson.bsky.social
110342
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 14/05/2026
We are hoping to hear more news about the restoration of Cheltenham’s labour and births service very soon. I’ve campaigned hard on this women’s healthcare issue to support local families. Watch this space. www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/news/chelten...
gloucestershirelive.co.uk
'Good progress' in efforts to reopen maternity unit this year
'For more than four years, Cheltenham mums have been deprived of the choice to give birth at their local hospital'
082
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 12/05/2026
Today's #WorldMEDay is focused on medical education, but awareness must lead to action. I’ve heard directly from people living with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis just how devastating this condition can be, and how difficult it is to access the right support, if any at all. 1/3
1132
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 06/05/2026
Many centre ground voters have traditionally voted Conservative, but I know how horrified many are by the prospect of Nigel Farage and the Reform party entering Downing Street. It seems MPs from the Tories and Reform are friends and are now admitting... 1/2
2154
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 06/05/2026
Last week, I attended a screening of documentary film ‘The People’s Emergency Briefing’ at Park Campus. The film is designed to raise public awareness of the climate and nature crisis, and features leading experts and public figures. As an environmentalist, it was a privilege to attend.
082
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 28/04/2026
BBC Politics asked me about Liberal Democrats’ chances at the elections on the 7th of May. We’re going to be strong contenders where we’re competitive against the Conservatives, & in many parts of the country we are now the only contenders against the divisive politics of Nigel Farage & Reform.
1142
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 24/04/2026
When you work in a role as fast-paced as that of an MP, you find yourself moving very quickly from one thing to the next. And there’s always more to do. That’s why I find it important to take stock of what’s been achieved and the impact all that work has had to date. 1/2
Image shows figures and insights into Max’s impact in Cheltenham during Jan-March 2026. From top left to bottom right:

- 5,147 letters and emails sent to and on behalf of constituents
- 1 law change - my landmark ‘Sunshine Bill’ became law
- 3,735 personal and political issues my team and I helped constituents with
- 53 advice surgeries, meetings and other visits in Cheltenham 
- 1 huge infrastructure project started - M5 J10
- 90 debates, questions to ministers and speeches in the House of Commons

At the bottom of the image is the email to contact Max - max.wilkinson.mp@parliament.uk
132
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 18/04/2026
It was wonderful to join Albie on his climb this morning as he raises money for the National Autistic Society. If you can, please support him here: justgiving.com/page/albieclimbs
043
Max Wilkinson MP @maxwilkinson.bsky.social · 17/04/2026
This Autism Awareness Month, one incredible Cheltonian is taking on a big challenge for the National Autistic Society. Albie, 5, is climbing the equivalent height of the UK’s tallest building, The Shard. If you can, please support Albie by sharing or donating at justgiving.com/page/albieclimbs
110