Labour Member of Parliament Callum Anderson has disclosed that arranging a high-profile visit by Sir Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves to the London Stock Exchange Group required months of meticulous planning. The visit, which occurred while the Labour leadership was in opposition, was a significant coup and took place shortly before Anderson was selected as a parliamentary candidate himself.
From City Policy to Public Service
Anderson, 34, represents Buckingham and Bletchley and brings a wealth of City experience to Westminster. His career began as a policy adviser at the Quoted Companies Alliance, representing small and mid-cap firms. He later held roles at the City of London Corporation and served as a Government Relations and Regulatory Strategy Manager at the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG).
He explained his transition from business to politics, stating he had always viewed public service as a long-term aim. His front-row seat to how policy shapes lives in organisations like the QCA and LSEG ultimately spurred his desire to help make those decisions directly, leading him to stand for election in 2024.
A Changing City and Personal Insights
When asked what he loves about the City of London, Anderson highlighted its growing diversity. He noted it has evolved beyond a mere office district into a vibrant area offering culture, dining, and social spaces, while retaining its unique character. His one suggested improvement? "More green spaces would be lovely, even if I know that’s easier said than done."
The MP shared various personal details in a light-hearted career profile:
- Coffee order: Flat white with oat milk.
- Favourite book: Sir Alex Ferguson's Leading.
- Business faux pas: Spilling multiple jugs of water in meetings.
- Proudest moment: His election as an MP in 2025, which he calls "the honour of my life."
Optimism for the Future
Describing himself as a "glass-half-full person," Anderson expressed definite optimism for the year ahead. He believes the UK has immense potential and needs to believe in itself. He and his team are focused on numerous local projects in his Buckinghamshire constituency, which he hopes will begin to show results in 2026.
His week is typically split between Westminster from Monday to Thursday and his constituency at weekends, where he engages with businesses, charities, and residents. His best career advice is simple: "Whatever you do, never ever give up." The person he looks up to most is his mother, to whom he says he owes a great deal.
