Mark Peter Fletcher (Conservative Party), Minister of Parliament for Bolsover

Mark Peter Fletcher, Conservative Member of Parliament for Bolsover since 2019, has been a figure of controversy and interest within the UK political landscape. Born on September 29, 1985, Fletcher is openly gay and married to Will Knock. His career includes working in the House of Lords as the chief of staff to the prime minister’s trade envoy to Uganda and Rwanda, Dolar Popat, as well as working for the private healthcare company Synergix Health.

In terms of his political stance, Fletcher has been notably critical of the BBC, accusing it of looking down on working-class communities in the North and Midlands. He described the BBC’s coverage of Brexit as “borderline farcical” with “wall-to-wall coverage of anti-British stories and negativity”.

One significant event that highlights Fletcher’s bold approach to politics is his resignation from the government in 2022. He resigned in response to Boris Johnson’s handling of the sexual assault allegations surrounding Chris Pincher, the MP for Tamworth. Fletcher accused Johnson of being an “apologist for someone who has [allegedly] committed sexual assault”, reflecting his stance on integrity and accountability within politics.

Regarding LGBTQ rights, Fletcher has been an active voice. In a 2021 debate on LGBT conversion therapy, he expressed strong opposition to the practice, which he described as “abhorrent” and without medical justification. Fletcher shared his personal experiences as an openly gay man, emphasizing the importance of supporting those who face challenges due to their sexual orientation. He stressed the need for continued advocacy and legal advancements to protect and uplift the LGBTQ community.

Mark Fletcher’s political journey reflects a combination of personal conviction and a readiness to challenge the status quo. His actions and statements, especially in relation to LGBTQ rights and political accountability, demonstrate a commitment to certain principles that align with his personal experiences and beliefs.