An experienced, strong voice for the New Forest
Jeremy Bennett has lived in the New Forest for over 25 years. He is standing to enhance what makes the New Forest area special and deliver serious, experienced leadership.
Standing for selection as the Conservative candidate for New Forest West
About Jeremy
Jeremy has lived in the New Forest for over 25 years and raised his family here — this isn’t just where he lives, it’s home.
He believes deeply in empowering people, backing communities, and protecting what matters locally — and reducing top-down government control over people’s lives.
Originally from a small Welsh Borders village, he learned early the value of freedom, responsibility, and the strength of local communities — principles that still drive him today.
He studied at the University of Oxford before a global career in finance and business, running major organisations and earning a reputation for delivering results. He backs the people around him to succeed.
At the height of the 2008 Financial Crisis, Jeremy stepped into public service and was the main designer of the Asset Protection Scheme at HM Treasury — the programme that stabilised banks like Lloyds Banking Group and Royal Bank of Scotland.
He has held leadership roles since in large businesses, small businesses, schools, universities, and leading charities — but always staying rooted to the New Forest community.
“One of my motivations in politics is to preserve and enhance what we have on our doorstep — including the marvellous and cherished institutions forming the backbone of the New Forest.”
Proven Leadership
Global business leadership
Ran a $2bn international business and built high-performing teams across the world
Stewardship through crisis
The main designer of the Asset Protection Scheme at HM Treasury
Public service
Has served on the boards of and led major UK and local charities, schools/universities. Jeremy is well-known for running organisations effectively.
Community leadership
Chairman of Walhampton School and long-standing supporter of local organisations
Latest From the New Forest
How to report a pothole
Everyone raises potholes on the doorstep. Jeremy does one himself and explains how to the ones near you fixed by Hampshire County Council. [Watch → HERE]
An FOI on the recently introduced New Forest parking charges
Jeremy submitted a Freedom of Information request to understand the new car park charges. The answers raised serious questions. [Watch → HERE]
Protecting the coast: have your say
The Environment Agency's draft strategy will decide how Keyhaven, Pennington and Lymington are protected from flooding and erosion for decades to come — with homes at risk set to rise sharply. Jeremy explains how to have your say before the consultation closes on 25 September. [Watch → HERE]Follow Jeremy for regular updates:
A Local Rooted in the New Forest
Jeremy has an understanding on what local concerns are — to protect the environment, support local businesses, and keep the character of towns and villages strong.
✓ New Forest Car parking charges — The New Forest deserves a strong, local and effective voice to protect its natural beauty, coastal paths and defences, and the community character that makes it so special. Even as one of the best places to live in Britain, it must stand up to measures like Forestry England’s £96 parking charge, which risk undermining long-standing local access.
✓ Backing business and opportunity — A strong local economy is vital to support businesses, encourage careers and support our services. This is a cornerstone concern.
✓ Pot holes and the delivery of services — Addressing potholes when they arise and continue to deliver quality transport and bus routes where they are most needed.
✓ Championing strong schools — Ensuring choice, high standards, and the skills needed for the future, so families can continue to thrive in the area.
Support Jeremy
If you would like to support Jeremy, ask questions, or find out more, please get in touch below and we’ll endeavour to answer.
Supporters must live and be on the electoral register in New Forest West, and be a member of the party for at least three months before the selection to vote in the Conservative candidate selection for NFW.
ARE YOU ABLE TO VOTE? Check to see if your postcode falls in the New Forest West constituency by using our page: Here