Saeed Ibrahim

Monmouthshire MP Catherine Fookes is calling on the Welsh Government to cut business rates for all high-street shops, arguing that excessive rates are contributing to empty retail units. Her campaign follows the announcement of a 20% business-rates reduction for pubs, social clubs and live-music venues in England, due to begin in April 2027. Fookes says the Plaid Cymru-led Welsh Government should fulfill its manifesto commitment to reform non-domestic rates, reducing the burden on town-centre businesses while requiring larger out-of-town online retailers to pay a fairer share.

Catherine Fookes has asked the UK Government to make the River Wye a priority and introduce a Water Protection Zone covering its English and Welsh sections. She says the measure could help address pollution, soil erosion and declining water quality, and has requested a meeting with Environment Minister Emma Hardy and the Wye Catchment Partnership. Hardy said the Government is working with the Environment Agency to assess options, including a protection zone, but that any designation must be evidence-led and targeted.

Welsh Secretary Stephen Kinnock praised Bangor Aberconwy MP Claire Hughes for publicly discussing her recovery from grade 3 triple-negative breast cancer. Hughes said she is cancer-free after seven months of treatment and is encouraging women, particularly younger women, to check for unusual changes and promptly consult a GP. The NHS was credited with supporting her treatment, while Welsh breast cancer figures underscore the importance of early detection: around 2,800–3,000 women are diagnosed annually, approximately 600 die each year, and five-year survival exceeds 91%.

Torfaen MP Nick Thomas-Symonds says Keir Starmer will be judged favorably by history despite leaving office after two years amid declining approval ratings, internal Labour opposition and political missteps. He highlights Starmer’s foreign policy, work with the European Union and Ukraine, and increased NHS funding as achievements likely to strengthen his legacy. Thomas Symonds also says Starmer is not bitter about being removed and urges successor Andy Burnham to study Harold Wilson’s approach to communicating with the public.

MP Catherine Fookes has urged the new UK Government to accelerate planned reforms to the Child Maintenance Service, arguing that too many separated parents are not receiving full or timely payments and that the current system can enable economic abuse and control. The reforms are expected to ensure that the parent caring for a child receives the money and could lift 20,000 children out of poverty. Fookes has asked to meet the DWP Minister, while the Government says ministerial oversight of child-poverty policy will continue.

New Welsh Labour leader Ken Skates visited Newport with MP Ruth Jones to hear residents' views and discuss how the party can regain power after a historic electoral defeat. Skates said Labour would develop a new mission statement and a clear political narrative focused on achieving “health and wealth for all,” while Jones pledged to support the party from Westminster.

The British Heart Foundation store on Commercial Street in Newport, South Wales, is not included in the charity’s first wave of planned UK shop closures, despite online reports confusing it with a store in Newport on the Isle of Wight. Newport East MP Jessica Morden is urging residents to shop at the store, donate goods and share information to help protect it from a possible second wave of closures. The BHF plans to close about 150 shops as part of a restructuring, with around 90 closures expected by March 2027 and the remainder by March 2028.

Newport East MP Jessica Morden said businesses were reporting improved conditions in Newport city centre and praised Operation Krypton, a partnership involving Gwent Police, Newport City Council and Hedyn. Since launching in July, the operation has resulted in more than 50 arrests, drug warrants, high-visibility patrols, weapons seizures, vehicle recoveries and action against businesses suspected of selling illegal vapes. Council leaders are seeking to extend the crackdown beyond September, although Morden acknowledged that further work is needed.

Monmouthshire MP Catherine Fookes visited Abergavenny retailer Jaybee Soft Furnishings to discuss ways to better support local businesses. The shop highlighted the need to improve the Memorial Garden and surrounding area, which serves as a gateway to the town. Fookes said she is investigating improvements to several vacant units opposite the shop as part of her High Streets Campaign, backed by £2.2 million in regional funding to help bring empty commercial properties back into use.

Labour MP Nick Smith criticized Plaid Cymru and the Welsh Government for failing to allocate additional funding specifically for children with Additional Learning Needs. Welsh Labour supported defeating the supplementary budget, while Plaid Cymru leader Ken Skates argued that the proposed multi-year funding arrangement was inadequate because schools and vulnerable children needed substantial upfront investment. First Minister Ap Iorwerth called Labour's actions irresponsible but said the government would pursue a more cooperative approach in future budget discussions.

Newport West and Islwyn MP Ruth Jones has urged residents to donate blood after giving blood herself at a Newport session. The Welsh Blood Service needs about 350 units daily to maintain supplies for emergency care, cancer treatment and maternity services, with each donation potentially helping up to three people. Welsh Blood Service director Alan Prosser praised donors and said the service hopes to expand opportunities in North Wales. One resident, Stuart Jenkins-Jones, criticized politicians for asking the public to give while allegedly taking too much from taxpayers.

Monmouthshire MP Catherine Fookes urged organisations addressing violence against women and girls to involve charities supporting men’s and boys’ mental health. At a parliamentary panel with the End Violence Against Women Coalition and Beyond Equality, she backed principles for working with men and boys to prevent violence against women. Fookes had previously questioned minister Jess Phillips about financial support, including the use of financial products such as joint mortgages in safeguarding policy.

Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney MP Nick Smith is urging Plaid Cymru and the Welsh Government to introduce a £2 cap on bus fares in Wales, following the UK Labour Government’s announcement of an equivalent cap in England. Welsh Labour argues that its previous legislation bringing buses into public ownership makes the policy possible and says it would help with cost-of-living pressures and access to public transport. Welsh Labour leader Ken Skates says Wales risks paying more than England if the cap is not introduced urgently. Conservative transport spokesman Richard Holden counters that Conservatives originally introduced and expanded the £2 cap, while Labour increased it to £3 before restoring it.

The UK Government has launched a 12-week consultation on fireworks and pyrotechnics, seeking views from the public, businesses, councils and animal-welfare groups. The consultation will consider restricting the availability of the noisiest fireworks, potentially banning additional types and reviewing the wider regulatory framework. Newport West and Islwyn MP Ruth Jones welcomed the move after years of campaigning, citing rising complaints about fireworks misuse in Newport. The Department for Business and Trade and the Office for Product Safety and Standards are running the consultation as part of the Government’s Safer Streets Mission, alongside existing safety campaigns and guidance for community displays.

Plaid Cymru Westminster leader Liz Saville Roberts has urged newly elected Prime Minister Andy Burnham to treat Wales as a nation rather than an English region and to devolve further powers. She called for authority over rail, the Crown Estate, justice and policing, arguing that these powers would support investment, infrastructure and locally tailored policies. Saville Roberts welcomed Burnham’s stated interest in empowering communities and the devolved nations but said he must act differently from previous UK governments and work constructively with the Senedd and the new Plaid Cymru government.

Newport East MP Jessica Morden has invited residents experiencing problems with FirstPort to contact her for assistance. Residents say delays by the property-management company caused house sales to collapse, including one homeowner whose sale took nearly 20 months; Morden helped obtain a required Deed of Variation. Other residents have called for wider parliamentary scrutiny of management-company fees, service quality and the treatment of unpaid charges.

Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerwerth and Scottish First Minister John Swinney met to strengthen cooperation between Wales and Scotland and press Westminster for what they described as a fairer settlement. They discussed the cost of living, closer ties with the European Union, rejoining the single market and customs union, and the devolution of welfare powers. Ap Iorwerth highlighted Wales’s Cynnal child payment pilot, inspired by Scotland’s child payment, which will provide £10 a week to families most in need.

A former Lloyds Bank building in Caldicot, Monmouthshire, is being converted into a veterinary surgery, which MP Catherine Fookes says demonstrates progress from her high street revitalization campaign. The campaign targets vacant commercial properties and is backed by £2.2 million in investment, including £1.5 million from the UK Government’s Pride in Place fund. Fookes plans to work with Monmouthshire County Council and property owners to bring more empty units back into use amid challenges including flooding, high business rates, infrastructure disruption and changing consumer habits.

Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney MP Nick Smith has written again to Virgin Media’s chief executive after the company’s response failed to address questions about executive accountability following Ofcom’s record £28 million fine. Ofcom found that Virgin Media used pressure tactics, excessive call transfers and holds, dropped calls, and failures to process cancellations, with its commission scheme encouraging staff to deter customers from leaving. Smith is also asking the chair of Virgin Media’s remuneration committee whether executive bonuses will be reviewed. Virgin Media apologized to the small proportion of customers who experienced problems and said it remains committed to providing good service.

Newport West and Islwyn MP Ruth Jones says Wales's defence sector must thrive as the Welsh Affairs Committee examines its role in UK defence. The inquiry will assess defence manufacturing, supply chains, workforce skills and procurement across sectors including aerospace, land systems, ammunition and drone technology. Wales's defence industry supports about 16,000 jobs, £3.7 billion in turnover and approximately £1.5 billion in gross value added. Jones welcomed the UK Government's more than £5 billion drone-programme investment but called for it to result in real contracts, skilled jobs and sustainable career opportunities in Wales.

Noa-Rose, a Newport child who survived a life-threatening Meningitis B infection in 2022, has raised almost £10,000 for Meningitis Now with support from her mother Emma. Her fundraising, which included climbing Pen y Fan, has earned her a place on the shortlist for the BBC’s Young Hero Award. MP Ruth Jones visited Noa-Rose and praised her efforts, while Meningitis Now CEO Tom Nutt highlighted the importance of vaccination and protecting teenagers and young adults from meningococcal disease.

Catherine Fookes is campaigning for the Welsh Government to reduce business rates by 20% for all high street businesses in Wales and for the UK Government to cut hospitality VAT to 10%. She argues that high operating costs are contributing to empty units and putting pressure on small businesses. The campaign includes a petition and a letter to Prime Minister Andy Burnham. The article also reports a planned 20% business-rates reduction for certain hospitality venues in England and the removal of VAT from domestic electricity bills.

Brynmawr Welfare Park has secured £750,000 from the UK Government’s £150 million Pride in Place Impact Fund for a new play and leisure facility and wider improvements. Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council and MP Nick Smith are inviting residents to help shape the redevelopment so it reflects local priorities and benefits children, families and the wider community.

Monmouthshire MP Catherine Fookes visited Itec, a training and employment centre in Abergavenny, to learn about support being provided to young people. She said the UK Government’s £1 billion Jobs Guarantee, which offers eligible 18-to-24-year-olds on Universal Credit six-month paid jobs and employability support, will help more young people gain confidence, skills and work experience. The scheme is being piloted in six areas, including Southwest and Southeast Wales, amid high youth unemployment and significant numbers of young people not in education, employment or training.

Former Torfaen MP Lord Murphy has warned that personal abuse on doorsteps and online harassment are threatening local democracy and discouraging people from serving as councillors. Speaking in the House of Lords, he said the abuse experienced by Gwent councillors during recent Senedd election campaigning was far worse than anything he encountered as a councillor more than 50 years ago. Baroness Taylor acknowledged particularly disturbing cases involving racism and praised local government representatives who continue serving despite the hostile environment. The Welsh Local Government Association reports that roughly seven in ten councillors in Wales and England experienced abuse or intimidation during the previous year.

Lord Don Touhig has urged the UK Government to create a mentoring scheme in which employers experienced in hiring autistic people advise other businesses. The proposal responds to Wales’s substantial autistic disability employment gap, with some surveys finding that only 16% of autistic adults are in full-time paid work. Work and Pensions Minister Baroness Sherlock welcomed the idea and said the Government is exploring business-to-business mentoring through its regional Vanguard employer work under Keep Britain Working. Existing initiatives, including Disability Confident and Connect to Work, already provide employer collaboration and supported employment assistance.

The UK Government has abandoned plans to replace Coastguard Rescue Officers’ hourly remuneration with an expenses-only model after opposition from unions, officers and MPs. Current allowances of roughly £11 to £12 per hour will continue while longer-term arrangements are reviewed. Monmouthshire MP Catherine Fookes welcomed the decision after lobbying on behalf of Chepstow’s 14 officers, highlighting their extensive work rescuing people during the Monmouth floods.

Monmouthshire MP Catherine Fookes has urged Prime Minister Andy Burnham to tackle pollution in local rivers, particularly the River Wye, and help revive struggling high streets in Monmouthshire and wider Gwent. She also highlighted protecting women and girls as a priority and reaffirmed her support for Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves. The article notes the River Wye's longstanding pollution problems and the decline of Welsh high streets, including in Newport and Ebbw Vale.

Caerphilly MP Chris Evans paid tribute to former England captain and manager Kevin Keegan, who is reported to have died at 75 after battling stage-four stomach cancer. Evans recalled interviewing Keegan while researching a book on Don Revie and described him as one of his childhood heroes and a lovely person. The article reviews Keegan's achievements with Liverpool, Newcastle United and England, including domestic and European trophies, Newcastle's 1995–96 Premier League title challenge, and his management of the national team at Euro 2000.

Former Torfaen MP Lord Murphy supports the Steel Industry (Nationalisation) Bill, arguing that Welsh steel is central to the country’s history, communities and identity. In the House of Lords, he highlighted the industrial heritage of Blaenavon and his family connections to mining and steelmaking. Former Plaid Cymru leader Lord Wigley also supports the legislation but warns that its powers must be used to safeguard Welsh steel, arguing that Port Talbot should not receive less favorable treatment than Scunthorpe. He says both sites are strategically, economically and defensively important and should be developed.

Monmouthshire MP Catherine Fookes said months of lobbying and work with local campaigners helped secure £1 million from the Ministry of Defence to repair Inglis Bridge in Monmouth. The Grade II listed bridge had been fully closed since September 2024 because of rotten timber decking and corroded steel. Refurbishment is nearing completion, with pedestrian reopening scheduled for the end of July 2026. Monmouth councillor Rob Barrell welcomed the project, highlighting the bridge’s heritage value and importance to residents, schoolchildren and walkers.

Palestinian Ambassador to the UK Husam Zomlot told Monmouthshire MP Catherine Fookes that Israel is systematically destroying Palestine and urged the British Government to hold Israel accountable. Speaking at a parliamentary briefing hosted by Labour Friends of Palestine & the Middle East, Zomlot called for stronger UK action. Fookes reaffirmed her support for a just and lasting peace, compliance with international law and a two-state solution, while Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper criticized the scale of destruction and restrictions affecting humanitarian aid, shelter and healthcare in Gaza.

Nick Thomas-Symonds received strong praise from EU and European officials for his work advancing EU–UK relations after being removed from his cabinet post by new Prime Minister Andy Burnham. EU representatives highlighted his leadership and contributions to strengthening the partnership, while officials from Cyprus and Ireland commended his cooperation and role in improving diplomatic ties. The Terrence Higgins Trust also credited him for effectively implementing compensation measures related to the Infected Blood Inquiry.

The Cabinet Office minister criticised Capita for failing to meet a June 30 deadline to resolve major delays in administering the civil service pension scheme, leaving thousands awaiting retirement quotes and bereavement case resolutions. He reported that more than 6,700 outstanding quotations and over 4,100 unresolved bereavement cases remain despite previous commitments, calling the service “dreadful” and urging stronger measures. Capita acknowledged the shortcomings and apologised for the distress caused.

Andy Burnham appointed Stephen Kinnock as Secretary of State for Wales and promoted Chris Bryant to Secretary of State for Northern Ireland as part of forming a new Cabinet. Kinnock’s background, previous roles and family reactions are highlighted, with Lord Kinnock praising his son’s promotion. Jo Stevens offered best wishes to her successor after leaving the Cabinet, noting achievements during her tenure, including support for Welsh public services and the steel industry.

Nick Smith praised Welsh Labour for rejecting the Welsh Government’s supplementary budget, arguing the proposed allocation for additional learning needs was insufficient despite UK Government funding. Welsh Labour leaders said vulnerable children require greater immediate support, while Plaid Cymru defended its position and urged responsible opposition. Calls were made to reopen negotiations to introduce a revised budget later in the summer.

Incoming Prime Minister Andy Burnham removed Nick Thomas‑Symonds and Jo Stevens from their government posts during a cabinet reshuffle. Thomas‑Symonds stepped down after an inquiry cleared him of wrongdoing in a text message exchange, stating he would continue serving as an MP from the backbenches. Stevens, who previously held the role of Welsh Secretary and recently won the new Cardiff East seat, also departed the Cabinet and expressed support for the new leadership. Both had been allies of former Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Andy Burnham becomes UK Prime Minister, drawing mixed responses from Gwent MPs, with some publicly supporting him while others remain silent. Several Labour MPs express confidence in his leadership and commitment to change, while Welsh First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth highlights the opportunity to strengthen devolution and improve Welsh–UK government relations. Burnham announces a priority to end long-term rough sleeping as he begins forming his government.

Nick Smith joined parliamentary events marking Armed Forces Week 2026, meeting military personnel and working dogs while praising their contributions to national safety. Exhibitions showcased advanced defence technology, including Harris bomb disposal robots. Lindsay Hoyle led the official flag-raising ceremony and thanked members of the Armed Forces community serving in Parliament.

MPs warn that unresolved administrative problems in cross‑border healthcare continue to put Welsh and English patients at risk due to gaps between the two systems. Following evidence sessions with Welsh health boards and NHS Wales Joint Commissioning Committee leaders, the Welsh Affairs Committee is partnering with the Senedd Health and Social Care Committee to conduct a joint review. The inquiry aims to improve accountability, address data‑sharing failures, and push both the Welsh and UK governments toward unified patient‑record solutions to prevent patients from being overlooked.

Nick Smith MP has urged Virgin Media to consider returning executive bonuses after Ofcom fined the company £28 million for practices that pressured customers attempting to cancel services. In a letter to the chief executive, he questioned how senior leaders could retain bonuses earned during the period when the misconduct occurred and said accountability should extend beyond financial penalties. Virgin Media apologised to affected customers and said it remains committed to providing good service.

Local leaders and residents warn that potential closures of M4 junctions in Newport would worsen congestion, pollution and pressure on neighbourhoods. The Welsh Government has not ruled out the option, prompting opposition from MP Jessica Morden, Newport City Council leader Dimitri Batrouni and a public petition. Critics link current problems to the 2019 cancellation of the M4 relief road, while Plaid Cymru’s transport minister maintains junction closures remain under consideration to address congestion.

Chris Evans urges the UK Government to set a timetable for granting charities such as Change Grow Live access to the NHS Electronic Prescription Service, arguing it is essential for treating alcohol and drug dependency. Stephen Kinnock affirms commitment to electronic prescribing and offers further discussion. Recent data shows Wales recorded significant drug poisoning and alcohol‑specific deaths in 2024.

Campaigners and MP Nick Smith urge the UK Government to accelerate access to emerging type 1 diabetes treatments, particularly the immunotherapy teplizumab. Diabetes UK’s Type 1 Tipping Point campaign highlights scientific advances that could delay or address the root causes of the condition, calling for faster NHS availability. The initiative brings together researchers, clinicians and policymakers to push for innovation uptake as type 1 diabetes affects thousands across Wales.

MP Jessica Morden highlighted the importance of Newport’s grassroots music venues during meetings with the Music Venue Trust at Westminster, noting their cultural value and financial fragility. The Trust reported ongoing pressures on UK grassroots venues, including closures and reduced touring opportunities, and outlined efforts to secure long-term stability through support initiatives and potential venue freehold acquisitions.

Monmouthshire MP Catherine Fookes plans to work with newly confirmed Welsh Labour leader Ken Skates to expedite the delivery of the Magor Walkway Station, a key rail project supported by both the Welsh and UK governments. Skates, unanimously backed as party leader, previously oversaw the station’s approval as Transport Minister. Construction is expected to begin in 2028 and finish in 2029 as part of a larger £445 million rail investment aimed at improving access for communities in Magor and Undy.

Ruth Jones highlights the need to protect the future of brass bands as Brass Band Week promotes visibility, participation, and support for community ensembles. Jones hosted a South Wales band in Westminster, joining MPs including new APPG chair Alex Davies-Jones to discuss funding and long-term sustainability. The initiative, backed by national arts bodies, provides resources and training while celebrating the cultural role of brass bands across the UK.

Chris Evans urges action to tackle digital poverty, highlighting that limited access to laptops restricts students’ educational progress, particularly among disadvantaged and SEND learners. The Digital Poverty Alliance’s new report stresses the importance of keyboard‑enabled devices in modern schooling and calls for a stronger national strategy to improve digital inclusion, reduce reliance on smartphones, and support families unable to afford suitable technology.

UK ministers plan to reduce the number of women in Welsh prisons through early intervention, rehabilitation and community-based alternatives. The Women’s Justice Board, chaired by Lord Timpson, is leading efforts to reform how women are treated in the justice system. MPs questioned delays to a planned Swansea residential women’s centre and sought assurances that alternatives to custody will remain accessible. The Government maintains its policies comply with existing prison and equality regulations.

Virgin Media was fined £28 million by Ofcom for obstructing customers from cancelling contracts over nearly three years, with tactics including dropped calls and unnecessary delays. Nick Smith MP called for compensation for affected Gwent residents and questioned accountability for the company’s leadership. Ellie Reeves MP pledged to ensure his concerns reached the appropriate minister. Ofcom said customers suffered financial loss and stress, while Virgin Media claimed service improvements have significantly reduced complaints.

MPs Jessica Morden and Catherine Fookes met Community Union President Andrew “Reg” Gutteridge in Westminster to discuss strengthening the steel industry in Gwent. The meeting, held within the Community Union Parliamentary Group, addressed the UK Steel Strategy, job protection and employment rights. Key local steel operations, including Tata Steel Llanwern and Liberty Steel, were highlighted as central to the region’s industrial base. Morden emphasised the importance of safeguarding local jobs and supporting industry growth, while the union reaffirmed its commitment to influencing policy on workplace rights and industrial renewal.

Gwent MPs voted with the majority to block attempts to halt proposed UK puberty‑blocker clinical trials for children under 16, following regulatory and ethical approval. The trials aim to assess physical, social and emotional effects, while critics pursue legal action claiming flawed approval processes. Health leaders, including Hilary Cass, argue trials are needed to prevent harm and improve evidence‑based care. Health Secretary James Murray called for decisions grounded in trusted clinical evidence.

Ruth Jones and other MPs pressed the government to address inconsistencies in freezer capacity for storing brain tumour tissue after the death of Owain James led to calls for clearer rights and national guidance. The Health Minister said NHS England had reviewed capacity needs and would work with professional bodies on updated tissue retention and consent procedures to support more equitable cancer treatment options.

Nick Thomas-Symonds marked the tenth anniversary of the Brexit referendum by arguing that leaving the EU created uncertainty, increased bureaucracy for businesses and weakened national security. He said both sides of the Brexit debate contributed to years of political division, while small businesses faced heavy paperwork and supply chain delays. The minister stated that the government is now focused on rebuilding the UK’s economic security and strengthening cooperation with Europe over the next decade.

Ruth Jones MP supports the introduction of Holly's Law, a proposed national animal‑cruelty registry inspired by the murder of Holly Bramley, whose husband had a repeated history of abusing animals. The proposal would use the existing Common Law Duty of Police Disclosure to allow police to share relevant information with rescue organisations, breeders, sellers, and individuals at risk, aiming to protect animals and help prevent cycles of abuse linked to domestic violence. Campaigners have met with politicians to press the government to adopt the measure.

Government plans to reform the Child Maintenance Service aim to ensure payments reach the parent caring for the child, with Monmouthshire MP Catherine Fookes stating the changes could lift 20,000 children out of poverty. The proposals include moving all users to the collect-and-pay system, reducing associated fees and strengthening enforcement, particularly for self‑employed non‑payers. The government maintains that the reforms require minimal funding and support broader commitments to reducing child poverty and addressing violence against women and girls, with ministerial oversight continuing through the interministerial group on child poverty.

Catherine Fookes expressed strong support for Keir Starmer following his resignation announcement, praising his character and leadership and highlighting key achievements of the Labour government, including economic improvements, workers’ rights reforms, poverty reduction, environmental measures, railway nationalisation, recognition of Palestine, and initiatives for community development and women's safety.

Ruth Jones calls for the UK government to ban endocrine-disrupting chemicals in children’s toys, arguing the country is falling behind scientific evidence and EU standards. She cites historical failures such as lead in toys and warns against repeating past mistakes. Jones plans to host a parliamentary event to highlight gaps in toy safety regulations and urges immediate action to protect children’s health.

A UK Government review found no evidence of improper behaviour by Welsh MP Nick Thomas-Symonds following allegations related to text messages with a female MP. The Propriety and Ethics Team assessed the complaint, and independent adviser Sir Laurie Magnus determined there were no grounds for a formal investigation, a position accepted by the Prime Minister. Thomas-Symonds, a senior Labour figure involved in post-Brexit negotiations, continues to hold prominent roles within the Government and has endorsed Andy Burnham to succeed Keir Starmer as party leader.