Sir Chris Bryant has been appointed as the new Northern Ireland Secretary by Prime Minister Andy Burnham, succeeding Hilary Benn who stepped down from the role. The Rhondda and Ogmore MP and former minister for trade and labour was announced as part of Burnham's Cabinet appointments late on Monday evening.
Appointment Announced Late Monday
The announcement came just after 11pm on Monday, following earlier reports that Hilary Benn would not continue in the position. Benn, a Labour veteran who had served as Northern Ireland Secretary since Labour returned to power in 2024 under former Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, confirmed he would support Burnham from the backbenches.
Benn was the first Labour politician to hold the role in 14 years, since the party lost the 2010 general election. He described his tenure as a "great privilege" and expressed support for his successor.
Tributes to Hilary Benn
Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs Helen McEntee paid tribute to Benn, stating he "brought warmth and a constructive approach to all of his relationships here in Ireland." She noted his "deep commitment to Northern Ireland, and to the UK-Ireland relationship more broadly."
DUP leader Gavin Robinson described Benn as an "honourable man" and acknowledged that while they had "difficulties" with Benn's position on legacy issues, he had invested significant time and effort into addressing them. Robinson said he looked forward to engaging with the new Secretary of State.
SDLP leader Claire Hanna said she "did not always agree" with Benn but found him "thoughtful, engaged and willing to listen," a contrast to some previous secretaries of state. She urged the new appointee to maintain momentum on institutional reform and sustainable public finances.
Benn's Farewell Statement
In a statement on social media platform X, Benn wrote: "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. 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."
New Secretary Faces Key Challenges
Sir Chris Bryant takes on the role amid ongoing issues including the legacy of Northern Ireland's troubled past, the Windsor Framework, and the need for stable, accountable government. Political leaders have emphasised the importance of constructive engagement with all parties and strengthening Northern Ireland's place within the United Kingdom.
