A Seat of Change: An Interview with Neil Duncan-Jordan, Poole’s First Labour MP
Neil Duncan-Jordan was born in the late 1960s in Elm Park, East London, to parents who also hailed from the city’s East End. His father worked for British Rail, while his mother held a part-time job in a shop. Duncan-Jordan became the first in his extended family to earn a university degree. As a young father in his late twenties, he pursued a journalism degree at the University of Bournemouth.
Following his studies, Duncan-Jordan embarked on a career advocating for social issues. He initially worked for the National Pensioners Convention, championing the rights of older citizens. Before his groundbreaking general election win, he served as a regional officer for UNISON, one of the UK’s largest trade unions.
In the 2024 General Election, Duncan-Jordan made history as the Labour Party candidate for Poole. After several recounts, he was confirmed as the constituency’s Member of Parliament with 14,168 votes (31.84%) and a razor-thin majority of 18 votes. This marked a significant 19% swing to Labour and the first time the party had ever won the Poole seat.
Since taking office, Duncan-Jordan has been active in local and national debates. In September 2024, he abstained from a vote on the Winter Fuel Payment, a decision that drew attention to his nuanced approach to policymaking. He has also voiced strong opposition to the proposed sale of Poole Civic Centre, demonstrating his commitment to preserving community assets.
Neil discusses his journey to Westminster, life as an MP, his tastes and interests, and his plans for Poole.
At what point did you realise that you were in with a chance of winning the Poole constituency?
We were knocking on doors from the very start of the campaign and realised a change was taking place. It was particularly noticeable among more affluent residents in traditionally Conservative areas who weren’t ideologically tied to the party. They felt let down and were open to a credible alternative. That was when we knew the Tory base was crumbling.
The stars aligned, but what did the people on the doorsteps suggest was the reason for this?
There was widespread disenchantment after 14 years of Conservative-led government. People felt there was no clear direction and no tangible improvement in their living standards. On top of that, the incumbent was seen as inactive for years. Offering visibility and a commitment to represent them was enough to win support.
How did your family respond to your win, and six months on, how are they adjusting?
This has been the hardest part of becoming an MP. Spending days away from your loved ones every week is incredibly tough. I honestly don’t know how MPs with young families manage it. Parliament is such an unfriendly workplace for families, and that needs to change if we’re serious about encouraging more people to step forward.
How have the people of Poole responded to you in your first six months?
I’ve been stopped in the street and congratulated – even by people I don’t know! I think they appreciate having an independently minded MP who stands up for the area. I’ve been inundated with correspondence and run a surgery every Friday, so lots of issues are coming through my door. People seem genuinely pleased that someone is listening and trying to help.
As a music man and once a member of The Darwins, is gigging now on ice for a while?
The Darwins wrapped up a few years ago, but I’ve since started a new band called Marine Club—you can find us on all the streaming platforms! Music keeps me sane; it’s how I decompress and make sense of everything. I even have a record player in my Westminster office because music is such a huge part of my life.
If money was no object, what three things would you do for the people of Poole right now?
First, build more publicly owned housing that’s truly affordable to rent. Second, fix the SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) system, which too often fails children and families. Third, invest in our high street to revitalise local businesses and create a sense of community.
In regards to Christmas TV specials—Gavin & Stacey or Outnumbered?
I watched both, but I think Gavin & Stacey had the edge.
You walk into a library and have all the time in the world—what book do you read?
I’m a fan of Andrea Camilleri’s Inspector Montalbano series.
You’re on a bus travelling around Poole. What ten songs are on your playlist?
From my current listening habits:
- “Man on a Boat” – Lady Blackbird
- “God Gave Me Feet for Dancing” – Ezra Collective
- “Live for You” – The Sacred Souls
- “Bossa for Miles” – Gustav Lundgren Trio
- “Tubby Chaser” – Chip Wickham
- “Stun Me” – Liam Bailey
- “That’s What She Said” – Paul Weller
- “I’m Looking Through You” – The Beatles
- “Quite Like Silver” – Edwyn Collins
- “A Song Called Soul” – Gene Chandler
Did you know that John le Carré was born in Parkstone? Are you a fan?
I didn’t know that! Wow. Yes, I love the George Smiley era of his novels. I’ve seen there’s a new Smiley book out, which I’ve yet to read, but it’s definitely on my list.
You’re looking to unwind for a couple of hours—Poole Park or Poole Harbour?
That’s a tricky one. Couldn’t I just walk between the two? If I had to choose, though, my real love is the beach.
What’s one thing you can’t do but wish you could?
End the war in Gaza.
Neil Duncan-Jordan’s story is a testament to the power of grassroots campaigning and the shifting political landscape in Poole. From his commitment to representing the people to his love of music, Neil is bringing a fresh perspective to Parliament and to his beloved seaside constituency.
