A North East MP has become the first from the region to be awarded a key position in Keir Starmer's new government as he appoints his cabinet.
Bridget Phillipson, MP for Houghton and Sunderland South, has been appointed as Education Secretary, it has been confirmed.
Ms Phillipson, who served as Shadow Education Secretary from 2021, defended her seat at the General Election with a majority of 7,169.
Bridget Phillipson MP @bphillipsonMP has been appointed Secretary of State for Education @educationgovuk. pic.twitter.com/mehHHtc117
— UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) July 5, 2024
Following her victory, Ms Phillipson wrote the country "has chosen a brighter future".
Coming in second place was Sam Woods-Brass of Reform UK who secured 11,668 votes.
The red wall was rebuilt in the North East with the Conservatives being wiped out everywhere bar Stockton West - where Matt Vickers retained his seat.
Bishop Auckland, Hartlepool and Newton Aycliffe and Spennymoor were just some of the seats gained by Labour who won a total of 412 seats across the country.
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