Burnham names Chris Bryant as Northern Ireland Secretary

Chris Bryant has been appointed the new Northern Ireland Secretary, a significant cabinet position in the British government. Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced the appointment late Monday, concluding a period of speculation following Hilary Benn's decision to leave the role.

Bryant, the MP for Rhondda and Ogmore, previously served as a minister for trade and labour. His appointment marks a shift in leadership for Northern Ireland affairs, with Benn having held the post since Labour's return to power in 2024. Benn was the first Labour Secretary of State for Northern Ireland in 14 years.

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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.

Benn received tributes from prominent figures, including Irish Foreign Affairs Minister Helen McEntee, who praised his "warmth and a constructive approach" and "deep commitment to Northern Ireland." DUP leader Gavin Robinson also acknowledged Benn as an "honourable man," despite political differences, recognizing his efforts on the legacy of Northern Ireland's troubled past.

In a statement on social media platform X, Benn described his tenure as a "great privilege" and pledged his support to Burnham from the backbenches. He expressed hope that his successor would continue to foster stability, growth, and investment in Northern Ireland, and advance the crucial Troubles Bill.

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He approached his role with purpose and understanding, and with a clear wish to make things better for all the people of Northern Ireland. That approach was what allowed both our governments to reach agreement last September on the Joint Framework on the Legacy of the Troubles, the first such comprehensive agreement on the issues in more than a decade. The framework puts victims, survivors and families at its heart. Hilary has brought warmth and a constructive approach to all of his relationships here in Ireland, and indeed in Northern Ireland. I wish Hilary the very best in the future.