Hilary Benn to leave Northern Ireland role after Burnham's succession

Hilary Benn is leaving his position as Secretary of State for Northern Ireland following Andy Burnham's appointment as prime minister, with Sir Chris Bryant named as his successor.

By Rachel Graham1 min read

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Hilary Benn has left his role as Secretary of State for Northern Ireland after Andy Burnham succeeded Keir Starmer as prime minister. The change followed a Cabinet reshuffle under Burnham's new government.

Sir Chris Bryant has been appointed as the new Northern Ireland Secretary, replacing Benn. He has served as MP for Rhondda and Ogmore since 2001 and previously held roles in the trade and Commons leadership portfolios.

Benn had recently begun negotiations with Stormont parties and Treasury officials on a multi-year budget to end months of stalemate. He expressed hope that his successor would continue progress on stability, growth, and the Troubles Bill.