News / Politics
Jones returns to backbenches with no place in Burnham’s cabinet
Prime minister Andy Burnham has informed Darren Jones that there is no place him in the new cabinet.
Jones was one of Keir Starmer’s most loyal lieutenants and held the newly created role by Starmer as chief secretary to the prime minister.
“From the campaign trail and the TV studios to the Treasury, No10 and the Cabinet Office – it’s been a privilege to be in the cabinet of a Labour government and to serve the country,” the Bristol North West MP wrote on X.
is needed now More than ever
“Andy Burnham has called to tell me I won’t be a part of his new cabinet. I wish him and his team every success.”
Jones helped reveal Starmer’s digital ID plans which are now likely to be scrapped.
He also defended Starmer over the Peter Mandelson scandal and was later revealed to have commiserated with the former US ambassador following his sacking over his links to Jeffrey Epstein.
Having made his name as a select committee chair, Jones, who grew up in Lawrence Weston, became well known nationally due to his regular media appearances.
He was tipped to run for Labour leader himself but will now return to the backbenches.
Jones’ statement added: “I was proud to lead two Spending Reviews that increased investment in our schools and hospitals, tackled child poverty and built council houses again, alongside the 10 year Infrastructure Strategy.
“And I was proud to play my part in coordinating national security and defence policy helping to rebuild our reputation on the world stage.
“I was brought into Downing Street and the Cabinet Office to improve Government delivery and I’m pleased that today many of the big metrics are moving in the right direction: NHS waiting lists down, immigration back to more manageable levels, wages consistently rising faster than prices and better economic growth figures than other big economies (although I’d love to see us doing more on that).
“I wish the new government every success.
“With Reform on the verge of imploding, an irrelevant Conservative Party and a tired SNP, there are big opportunities for Labour to push on.
“I’ll continue to fight from the backbenches for more power, wealth and opportunity for the many – and proudly represent the place I was born and raised as MP for Bristol North West.”
Main photo: Number 10
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