![Stuart's Political Milestones](/sites/www.stuartanderson.org.uk/files/styles/gallery_large/public/2024-08/Website%20-%20Political%20Milestones%20%281%29.png?itok=_elqdAkw)
Politics was not something Stuart was brought up in. After his career in the Army and private defence and security sector, Stuart considered politics as a way in which he could continue to use his skills and experiences to help people. Stuart soon realised that what he held most dear was reflected within the deep fabric of the Conservative Party, and joined the Party in 2016.
Stuart threw himself straight in to the political sphere, contesting the October 2017 by-election in Herefordshire. Stuart won in Kings Acre ward by a landslide, a ward that had never previously been won by a Conservative. His rapidly increasing involvement in politics led him to being selected in 2018 as the Conservative Party Parliamentary Candidate in Wolverhampton South West, a Labour-held seat since 2015. Stuart moved his family into the area and once again threw himself into campaigning to win the seat. In December 2019, Stuart won with a swing of 4.9% and a majority of 1,661.
Since entering Parliament, Stuart has been fully committed to the responsibilities of the role and the people he represents. The Covid-19 pandemic was a unique challenge for all MPs, but it was not long before Stuart was recognised for his dedication and elected to sit on the House of Commons Defence Select Committee. Within this committee Stuart had the privilege of co-authoring a series of high-profile reports, influencing government policy on its approach towards key defence issues. This includes veteran welfare and the treatment of women in the Armed Forces. As a member of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, Stuart represented the Government in meetings with allies around the world. In particular, this involved supporting NATO in its response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
In July 2022, Stuart was appointed to the role of Assistant Government Whip, was reappointed in September 2022 as one of the last acts of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and continued under three Prime Ministers, being reappointed in November 2022. This role has embedded Stuart within the heart of Government operations, helping support Government business through vital strategic planning. He was promoted to a senior Government Whip (Lords Commissioner of HM Treasury) in February 2023, a role which Stuart held until his promotion In November 2023 to Vice Chamberlain of His Majesty's Household. This is a role with responsibility not just as a senior whip but as a key constitutional link between the Government and the Monarch - Stuart is responsible for communicating with and representing the Monarch at Government functions. He is highly regarded by colleagues, from the backbenches to the Cabinet, and recognised for his crucial work supporting three different Prime Ministers. Stuart is known for the exceptional work ethic, consistency and competence he brings to every role he has held in Parliament.
In March 2023, Stuart announced that he would not be standing for re-election in Wolverhampton South West. This was a decision made in consultation with the Conservative Party Board in response to a significant build-up of abuse and intimidation in Wolverhampton, which had severely impacted both his family and his constituency team.
In July 2024, Stuart was successfully elected as the Member of Parliament for South Shropshire. Immediately Stuart was asked to take an interim role as Shadow Deputy Chief Whip, to help organise the party in order to provide an effective Opposition to the new Government. Stuart was also appointed as Shadow Armed Forces Minister, reflecting his deep experience and understanding of the Armed Forces.