Brian Mathew
Liberal Democrat · Melksham and Devizes
FULL PROFILEBrian Mathew is the Liberal Democrat MP for Melksham and Devizes, first elected in 2024. As an opposition MP, they are expected to vote against the government on most whipped divisions.
Ideology
Voting Behaviour
Key Interests
Healthcare and NHS services · Local transport and bus services · Environmental protection · International development · Support for Ukraine
Positions
Healthcare — Supports increased NHS funding and improved local healthcare facilities
strong
International Development — Advocates returning to 0.7% GNI spending target
strong
Public Transport — Calls for improved bus service reliability and accessibility
moderate
Environmental Protection — Supports chalk stream protection and air pollution considerations in planning
moderate
Ukraine Support — Backs military aid and simplified refugee visa processes
moderate
Local Business Support — Advocates VAT cuts for struggling pubs and restaurants
moderate
Child Safety Online — Calls for social media company accountability
weak
Democratic Security — Supports measures against Russian interference
weak
Reasoning Style
Constituency-focused and pragmatic, frequently citing specific local examples from Melksham and Devizes to illustrate broader policy points, with particular emphasis on healthcare access and transport issues affecting his constituents.
Background
Brian Mathew was previously a Wiltshire councillor before becoming MP for Melksham and Devizes in 2024, bringing local government experience to his parliamentary role.