Bridget Phillipson is Labour’s new shadow education secretary
By Rachel Lawler
Bridget Phillipson has joined Labour’s shadow cabinet, replacing Kate Green as shadow education secretary as part of a wider reshuffle in the shadow cabinet.
Writing on Twitter, Phillipson commented: “Delighted to accept the role of shadow education secretary under [Keir Starmer]. I had a wonderful education at my local state schools – and every child deserves that. The last Labour government transformed the lives of a generation. I’ll work every day to see that change again.”
Phillipson has been an MP for Houghton and Sunderland South since 2010 and previously served as shadow chief secretary to the Treasury.
Kate Green commented: “It’s been an hour to serve as shadow education secretary and to learn so much from education professionals, students, parents and children. I’m thrilled to congratulate my great friend [Bridget Phillipson] who will be a great champion for children and young people.”
Neil Leitch, chief executive of the Alliance, commented: “We warmly welcome the appointment of Bridget Phillipson as shadow education secretary. Now more than ever, the sector needs an effective opposition to scrutinise and, where possible, help shape government policy, and so we hope that she will be a powerful advocate for the early years, along with the rest of the education sector, at this challenging time.
“Early years educators have been on the frontline during the Covid-19 pandemic, supporting children’s development and ensuring that parents – including our key workers – can continue to do their jobs. We look forward to working with Ms Phillipson to ensure that they, in turn, have the support they need to continue delivering quality care and education that is so important to children and families.”