Labour appoints Bridget Phillipson as chairwoman
Equalities minister Bridget Phillipson has been appointed Labour Party chairwoman by Andy Burnham, who has tasked her with driving a “culture change” within the party, reports BritPanorama.
Mr Burnham emphasised that Ms Phillipson would ensure Labour remains focused on “delivering for working people.” Her responsibilities include preparing the party for the next general election, modernising its digital campaigning, and establishing the necessary organisation, infrastructure, and policy platform for electoral success.
In announcing her appointment, Mr Burnham stated: “Bridget Phillipson, as party chair, will help drive the culture change our party needs, working alongside Lucy Powell and me to ensure Labour remains focused on delivering for working people.”
“She will play a vital role in ensuring the Labour Party is match fit for the next election.” He expressed his delight at her acceptance, anticipating close collaboration on what he termed a vital task.
Ms Phillipson, who previously served as Education Secretary under Sir Keir Starmer’s premiership, remarked: “I am honoured to take on the role of Labour Party chair, working alongside our Prime Minister to put our Labour values and the voices of our movement at the heart of government.”
She added, “By uniting together, we will bring hope back to communities and strengthen British society against those working to divide us.” In her view, the Labour government has the opportunity to write a new chapter for the country that prioritises justice, opportunity, and fairness for working people.
During her time as education secretary, she oversaw initiatives such as the expansion of free breakfast clubs, modifications to school inspections, and efforts to address rising absenteeism. The Sunderland MP retains her role as equalities minister while transferring the education brief to Lucy Powell.
Deputy Labour leader Lucy Powell expressed eagerness to collaborate with Ms Phillipson, stating, “I look forward to working with Bridget as we build on the culture change in the party that Andy has made a priority.”
“Working together, we will ensure the party continues to lead the way in campaigning, with the strongest ground operation in British politics as we prepare for the next general election.”
