Hilary Benn has pledged to support new Prime Minister Andy Burnham from the backbenches as he leaves his role as secretary of state for Northern Ireland. The Labour veteran had been serving in the region since he was appointed by former premier Sir Keir Starmer after their party returned to power in 2024.
Benn's Tenure and Tribute
Mr Benn was the first Labour figure to hold the Northern Ireland role in 14 years, since the party lost the 2010 general election. Earlier, DUP leader Gavin Robinson paid tribute to Mr Benn as an “honourable man”. He told media in Belfast that while he had “difficulties” with Mr Benn’s position on the legacy of Northern Ireland’s troubled past, he recognised he had put “a lot of his time and effort” into trying to tackle that issue.
Announcement on Social Media
Later on Monday, Mr Benn announced he was leaving the role in a statement on social media platform X. He described the “great privilege” to have served and also pledged his support for Mr Burnham. “It has been a great privilege to serve as Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and to work with the many wonderful people I have met over the last 2 years,” he said.
“I wish my successor all the very best in working with the Executive to protect stability, continuing to generate growth and investment and in taking forward the Troubles Bill which is so important for so many families. The Prime Minister will have my full support from the backbenches.”
