Andy Burnham appoints Bridget Phillipson as Labour party chair

Bridget Phillipson has been appointed Labour Party chair by Prime Minister Andy Burnham, taking on a role that puts her at the centre of Labour's preparations for the next general election.

The former education secretary, who designed a landmark overhaul of special education needs provision in England, follows in the footsteps of previous party chairs including Harriet Harman, Angela Rayner and Tom Watson. She replaces Anna Turley, who was moved to a ministerial role in the Home Office during last week's government reshuffle.

Phillipson was demoted from her position as education secretary by Burnham last week, with the role handed to Lucy Powell, a key Burnham ally. However, she retained her place in the cabinet as women and equalities minister, marking the first time the role has been included in cabinet in its own right.

The appointment has been interpreted as an olive branch to members of the previous government. A Labour spokesperson said Phillipson, who will work closely with deputy Labour leader Powell, would help modernise the party ready for the next general election. Burnham stated: "She will play a vital role in ensuring the Labour Party is match fit for the next election."

The leadership team, which also includes chief whip Anneliese Midgley, is expected to focus on culture change and building the infrastructure and policy platform needed before 2029, the latest date an election can be held.

Announcing her appointment, Phillipson said: "I joined our party as a teenager and saw first hand the difference a Labour government makes. I'll work with members to build the election-winning machine that sees off Reform UK for good and secures a second Labour term."

Powell, also deputy leader of the Labour Party, welcomed the appointment, saying: "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."

Phillipson and Powell previously competed for the deputy leader position last year following Angela Rayner's resignation, with Powell ultimately prevailing.