Labour frontbencher resigns from top team

Huw Irranca-Davies has announced that he is stepping down as Shadow Minister for Food and Farming.

Irranca-Davies, who has been the MP for Ogmore since 2002, has also been Parliamentary Private Secretary in Northern Ireland, in the Department for Work and Pensions, and in the Department of Culture, Media and Sport. In 2006 he was made Assistant Whip in May 2006 before being made Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Wales in 2007.

He has been Shadow Minister for Food and Farming since 2010 and in recent years was known for defending Labour’s policy to stop badger culls.

He released a statement, explaining why he was stepping down:

“The decision is entirely my own. It has been a privilege to serve as a Minister and Shadow Minister alongside passionate and talented colleagues, and I do not rule out a return to the frontbench in future if the opportunity arises.

“But for now I intend to play a full and constructive role in the rebuilding of the Labour party in Wales and the UK from the backbenches, speaking up as always for my constituents, putting forward ideas which will reconnect people with politics, and working for Labour success in the elections for the National Assembly for Wales next year.”

“The General Election has been a shock to Labour, and to those who sought a more compassionate politics and government in Westminster. There will now be very tough times ahead for many of my constituents, and for many throughout Wales and the UK. I will continue to speak up for them, now and in the years ahead.”