Dr Neil Hudson MP is the Conservative Member of Parliament for Epping Forest. Neil’s family have lived in Epping Forest for decades and Neil started his veterinary career working in and around Epping Forest. Neil’s grandfather was an RAF pilot stationed at North Weald Airfield in 1928, and Neil’s late father was a Parish Councillor in North Weald, and a member of the Board of Governors of Epping St John’s School.
Professionally, prior to entering politics, Neil is a veterinary surgeon by background, with specialised training and experience in Equine Medicine and has worked in large and small animal veterinary practice and academia in the UK and Australia. In 2001, Neil spent a period as a Veterinary Inspector during the 2001 Foot and Mouth Crisis. He has postgraduate qualifications in Equine Medicine and Gastroenterology and is a Fellow of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and a Principal Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.
Neil served in the 2019-2024 Parliament as a Conservative Member of Parliament for a seat now abolished following the 2023 Review of Parliamentary Constituency Boundaries in England. In Parliament, Neil has been an active member of the House of Commons Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee. Neil was the first vet elected to the House of Commons since 1884 and brings extensive real-life experience to help inform policy in areas such as education, health, science and animal welfare. Neil has campaigned on many issues such as improving mental health, public services, food security and transport links. Neil is passionate about prioritising the UK's strong global security, boosting the nation's physical and mental health, and protecting our precious green and blue spaces. In August 2024 Neil received a special honour from the RSPCA – Neil was awarded the newly-introduced Massingham Advocacy award which recognises elected officials who have demonstrated unwavering dedication and commitment to advocating for animals.
In November 2024 Neil was appointed by the Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch, as a Shadow DEFRA Minister (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs).
Neil is married with two sons. Outside politics, his interests include football, cricket (he played for Woodford Green Cricket Club in his student days), cycling, music (playing the piano), theatre and walking his dogs Juno and Poppy.
Neil is passionate about standing up for the people of Epping Forest.