Nicholas Le Quesne Herbert (born 7 April 1963) is an English politician and long-serving Member of Parliament. He represents the constituency of Arundel and South Downs and is a member of the Conservative Party. Over his parliamentary career he has occupied a range of frontbench responsibilities and been active in national debates on policing, criminal justice and local constituency matters.
Overview of parliamentary career
First elected at the 2005 general election, Herbert has served on both government and opposition front benches. His roles have included shadow responsibilities as well as ministerial duties, notably positions connected to justice and policing. He has worked in roles that involved co-ordination between the Home Office and other departments, reflecting the cross‑departmental nature of criminal justice policy.
Policy interests and priorities
Herbert’s parliamentary interests have focused on law and order, the administration of justice and community safety, alongside concerns common to his largely rural constituency such as local services and transport. He has taken part in debates about prison policy, policing resources and the balance between public protection and rehabilitation.
Work in constituency and Parliament
As the MP for Arundel and South Downs, Herbert combines national responsibilities with constituency casework, representing local concerns in Westminster and supporting community groups. He has been re-elected by his constituents at successive general elections, which has allowed him to maintain a continuous presence in parliamentary business and select committees.
Background and distinctions
Before entering Parliament many politicians follow varied careers in business, public policy or party organisations; Herbert’s background includes experience outside the Commons that informed his later political work. He is sometimes referenced by his full name, Nicholas Le Quesne Herbert, to distinguish him from other public figures sharing the Herbert surname.
Relevance and further reading
Herbert’s combination of constituency duties and frontbench experience has made him a recognizable figure in debates on policing and justice within the Conservative Party and in Parliament. For official biographies, voting records and recent statements consult primary sources and parliamentary pages via trusted outlets: see biographical and constituency material linked to his profile and public records (professional background, birth information, and constituency pages at Arundel and South Downs).