As the event of the general election looms on the near horizon, the financial services sector should invest some time getting to understand those likely new MPs who will be key figures in the debates to come.
Across the current crop of Prospective Parliamentary Candidates there are a number of seasoned and respected figures who are likely to hit the ground running and look to shape crucial policy areas.
On the shortlist of those to watch out for as the results roll in (as well in subsequent months) include:

  • Bim Afolami, Con – Hitchin and Harpenden: Currently works at HSBC as a senior executive, before which he worked in corporate law. He has previously served as the Treasurer of the Bow Group. It remains to be seen if he follows in the successful footsteps as other alumni of the think-tank.
  • Neil O’Brien, Con – Harborough: A former special adviser to both Cameron and Osborne, he also ran Policy Exchange. He was one of the intellectual driving forces behind the Northern Powerhouse, and could well do the same regarding the Midlands Engine policy when he becomes an MP. He has found himself in a very safe Conservative seat, but is reportedly looking to start off his new role by taking a low profile, but time will tell how long this lasts.
  • Vicky Ford, Con – Chelmsford: Had a 14-year career in banking at JPMorgan and Bear Stearns. She has been an MEP for East of England since 2009, and was previously involved in the negotiations on banking reform.
  • Anneliese Dodds, Labour- Oxford East: A former researcher at the LSE and King’s College London, she was elected as Labour MEP for South East England in 2014. During her time as an MEP she sat on the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs, using her position to campaign for better regulation of the financial markets and SMEs.
  • Simon Baynes, Con – Clwyd South: A JPMorgan partner who has campaigned for better access to financial services in his local area. He has a tough fight going up against Susan Elan Jones’ 2,402 majority, but has been part of the Conservatives’ revival in Wales.
  • Matt Hartley, Con – Eltham: Currently the head of public affairs at the Money Advice Trust, he has worked with other charities focusing on consumer issues like debt. He has was the director of a local credit union, but now needs to overturn a 2,693 majority.
  • Resham Kotecha, Con- Coventry North West: An economist by training, Kotecha is expected to take a strong interest in the Midlands Engine, plus financial services as a former FSA analyst. She has the hardest contest on this list with Labour incumbent Geoffrey Robinson having a majority of 4,509.

After 8 June, it will also be important to watch who will be taking on the mantle of the chair of the Treasury Select Committee, given Andrew Tyrie’s decision to stand down. Assuming we are heading for another Conservative government, the chairmanship of the TSC will pass to one of Tyrie’s Conservative colleagues. This is a prize position so expect a number of MPs to come out fighting. Those to watch include Steve Baker, Jacob Rees-Mogg, and Nicky Morgan.