It is very important to me that politics is a frank and unencumbered exchange of ideas and views. In order to make this a reality we must ensure that the terms of debate are robust and open. Free speech is the underlying foundation of our democracy and our ability to maintain standards in public life, honesty, openness, and transparency are entirely dependent on it. It has been my very great privilege to be elected the Chairman of Buckinghamshire Councils Standards and General Purposes committee and given the chance to put these principles into action.