Patrick “Paddy” Hennessy is Labour’s new Deputy Director of Communications

The Labour Party have announced – just in time for party conference – that Patrick “Paddy” Hennessy will be leaving the Sunday Telegraph to work as the party’s new Deputy Director of Communications. The party say that “He will sharpen Labour’s attack stories, improve message discipline and ensure the party delivers a 24-hour news cycle”.

Announcing Hennessy’s appointment today, Ed Miliband said:

“I am delighted to welcome Paddy to the Labour Party as our new Deputy Director of Communications.

“His experience working at a range of national newspapers will add significant expertise to the Labour Party’s communications team. I’m looking forward to working with him.”

Whilst Patrick Hennessy said:

“I am sad to be leaving the Sunday Telegraph after nine great years but this is an exciting new challenge.

“After nearly 30 years working in newspapers, it’s a big move but a simple task: to help Labour win the general election.

“I’m delighted to be joining.”

It’s a big job, and a crucial one – we wish him all the best.