On the go: Former shadow economic secretary Jonathan Reynolds has been named as the shadow secretary for work and pensions by new Labour leader Keir Starmer.
Mr Reynolds made the announcement on Twitter on Tuesday, saying he was “incredibly proud and humbled” to be given the position. He succeeds Margaret Greenwood, who held the position for two years.
Talking about his new role, Mr Reynolds said he understood just how “big a brief this is to both individuals and the UK economy”. He also pointed out that the UK needs “serious long-term thinking” when it comes to pensions, something that he has touched on in previous roles.
When speaking about the ongoing coronavirus crisis, he said: “This crisis has brutally confirmed that our existing welfare state is not fit for purpose.
“Too often it leaves people without support and fails to treat them with the dignity and respect they deserve.”
Mr Reynolds takes on the position following his stint as shadow economic secretary, a role that he held for three and a half years. Prior to this he held roles such as shadow transport minister, shadow energy minister and opposition assistant whip.
Mr Reynolds has been MP for Stalybridge and Hyde since 2010.
This article originally appeared on FTAdviser.com
