Reform UK MP Sarah Pochin delivered her maiden speech in the House of Commons today, just days after her historic victory in the Runcorn and Helsby by-election.
The new MP won her seat by a mere six votes in what she described as "the closest by-election result in parliamentary history."
"I'm so proud to be here. I feel incredibly privileged to stand in this place," Pochin told the chamber.
She addressed the House less than a week after her election, explaining: "It's important that I make this maiden speech today. Some have raised eyebrows, as I've only been here for less than a week."
Reform UK MP Sarah Pochin gave her first speech in the Commons today
Parliament
In her speech, she paid tribute to her Labour predecessor Mike Amesbury, acknowledging his work on school uniform costs.
"In 2020, he won a ballot to introduce a private member's bill, and he chose to focus on the cost of school uniforms, addressing the cost of living crisis," she noted.
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Pochin stated illegal immigration as a major concern in her constituency, stating: "In Runcorn, we know of over 900 illegal immigrants currently residing in the area.
"Around 400 are housed in the Derby Hotel an asylum hotel that, during the election campaign, the government promised would be shut down, but it remains open. The remaining 500 are in HMOs houses of multiple occupancy within the community.
"The recent government scheme encouraging private landlords to offer their properties for housing illegal immigrants in exchange for guaranteed rent and maintenance will only worsen this situation. It will drive out British tenants, inflate rents, and deepen the housing crisis.
"In places like Runcorn, HMOs often house 15 to 20 young men. Families living nearby report anti-social behaviour, drug dealing, and noise throughout the night. I’ve seen the CCTV footage.
"I’ve heard the stories. People are afraid to go out, and they won’t let their children play on the pavements when these properties are nearby.
"These HMOs are breeding grounds for organised crime drugs, human trafficking, and grooming gangs. This is something recently downplayed by the Leader of the House.
"I will champion the safety of women and children. I will not deny or minimise the realities of sexual violence and abuse.
"My background in the justice system will guide my contributions on issues close to my heart, such as the current state of our prisons and the daily threats faced by our brave prison officers."
Pochin stated illegal immigration as a major concern in her constituency
Parliament
"I've been asked many times over the past ten days if I feel overwhelmed. I do not," she declared.
She thanked "the Honourable Member for Clacton for his vision, commitment, and conviction that have brought a new voice into this chamber."
Pochin assured fellow MPs: "You will find me fair, principled, and dedicated to serving my constituents."
She concluded with a message of determination: "I am not overwhelmed—I am respectful of this place, humbled by it. But I am ready for it."
