Leigh and Atherton MP Jo Platt has been appointed parliamentary private secretary (PPS) to Prime Minister Andy Burnham, Downing Street announced on July 29.
Role and responsibilities
The 53-year-old Salford-born MP will serve as a link between the Prime Minister and fellow MPs, ensuring backbench views and concerns are communicated directly to the government. The PPS also supports the Prime Minister in parliamentary business and engagement across Westminster.
Constituency ties
Ms Platt represents the same Leigh constituency that Andy Burnham held before he stepped down to become Greater Manchester mayor in 2017. Burnham now represents the neighbouring constituency of Makerfield.
Platt's statement
“I am delighted to be appointed Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Prime Minister,” Platt said. “It is a privilege to take on this role, and I am looking forward to getting started. While taking on this new responsibility, my foremost priority remains delivering for the people of Leigh and Atherton and being a strong voice for our community. The Prime Minister has set out a bold vision for the country, focused on raising living standards, expanding opportunity and empowering communities through greater devolution. I am proud to play my part in helping to deliver that agenda.”
The appointment completes the Prime Minister's key parliamentary appointments following his entry into Downing Street on July 20.
