My name is Craig Smith, and I have had the privilege of serving as a County Councillor for the Coalville North Division in Leicestershire since 2021, representing the community I have proudly called home all my life. I was also honoured to represent our area more widely as the Conservative Parliamentary candidate for North West Leicestershire during the 2024 General Election, building on my passion for advocating for our region and its people.

We are thrilled the government is strengthening the Blue Belt in South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands by expanding protection by a staggering 166,000km2 🌊

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us at #CPC23 and got behind this campaign 💙🐧

As we begin 2025, many of us are reflecting on the challenges and changes that have shaped the past year. For some, 2024 was a year of success, but for others—including myself—it marked the end of one chapter and the start of a new one.

As Chair of the Ocean Council, I find myself reflecting on the tremendous potential of the recent White Paper on English devolution, particularly in terms of its impact on coastal communities and their role within the broader climate strategy. Published on December 16th, 2024, this document lays the groundwork for a new chapter in local government. With at least 17 councils expressing interest in the English devolution fast-track programme and all two-tier authorities having to consider local government reorganisation, there are plenty of challenges and opportunities ahead of us.

Rishi Sunak's Ocean Pledge: One-Year On and the Course Ahead

As we celebrate the one-year anniversary of Conservative Friends of the Ocean successfully signing up the Prime Minister to our "Ocean Pledge," it is important to reflect on the progress made and the challenges that lie ahead. This pledge, which aimed to protect our oceans and support coastal communities, has seen significant advancements, but there is still much work to be done.

Dark and Mysterious | Both beautiful and dangerous, the ocean must be respected

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Summer Reception.

“The majority of Conservatives want to see a strong economy and a strong environment. Protecting our oceans will not just facilitate economic growth, but accelerate it.” Kirsty Finlayson

One week on from #CPC22… we’re making waves within the Political world.

Video of the Conservative Friends of the Ocean launch reception at #CPC22

In October 2022, Conservative Friends of the Ocean was proud to host our first event at Conservative Party Conference.

Out from the lineup and onto the wave… Conservative Friends of the Ocean held a launch reception on Sunday 4th September.

“The High Seas continue to be the Wild West. This cannot go on if we want to ensure sustainability for industry, and a healthy, stable ocean ecosystem.” Oliver Kerr, Strategy and Policy Lead, CFOTOcean