FOREST of Dean MP Matt Bishop has been appointed as the new Backbench Departmental Chair for the Cabinet Office

He will be taking on a prominent role in ensuring stronger communication between backbench MPs, government ministers and senior officials.

Mr Bishop said he was “pleased” to take on the position and described it as a vital opportunity to ensure the perspectives of Parliament’s backbench members are properly heard, valued and represented in national decision-making.

He explained that the role will focus on strengthening collaboration between MPs and ministers, making sure the experiences of local representatives help shape government policy and influence national decisions.

“It’s vital that backbench MPs have a clear channel to contribute to the development of policy,” he said. “We bring insights from communities across the country, and I want to make sure those perspectives directly inform the work of government and the decisions that affect people’s lives.”

Mr Bishop added that one of his main priorities will be building constructive and open dialogue between ministers and Parliament. “I’ll be working closely with colleagues to strengthen that connection and to make sure our shared priorities translate into meaningful outcomes for the people we represent,” he said.

The Cabinet Office supports the Prime Minister and coordinates activity across Whitehall, making it one of the most influential departments in government.

Mr Bishop’s appointment gives him a direct link to the centre of policymaking and a platform to raise issues affecting rural areas like the Forest of Dean.

Since being elected earlier this year, he has spoken in Parliament on issues affecting the Forest of Dean, including local services, business support, environmental concerns and investment in sustainable industries.

His new role will give him direct involvement in discussions across government departments and a formal channel to raise issues affecting his constituency.