Richard Michael Bacon (born 3 December 1962) is a British politician who served as the Member of Parliament (MP) for South Norfolk from 2001 until 2024.

He worked variously in investment banking, financial journalism and public relations consultancy, before setting up his own business advising blue chip international companies on communications.

Bacon was then selected for the very safe Conservative seat of South Norfolk on the retirement of its veteran MP and former Cabinet Minister, John MacGregor.

[7] He voted against anti-terror laws, top-up fees, foundation hospitals, and the ban on fox hunting, and was one of the few Conservatives to support the Impeach Blair campaign.

He was also sceptical about aspects of the climate change debate, having opposed plans to build new wind turbines in South Norfolk,[8] stating the scheme was not viable for the area.

In February 2007, Bacon was alleged to be the politician with the highest expenditure on taxi and car hire during the previous year,[9] a claim which he disputed and referred to the National Audit Office.

Bacon was deselected by his local party committee after coming under fire from constituents who complained that he was guilty of repeatedly failing to respond to emails and other forms of correspondence.