Alison McGovern announced as new Progress chair

Wirral South MP Alison McGovern is the new chair of Progress, it has been announced. The role is elected by the Progress strategy board, and McGovern succeeds John Woodcock in the position. She becomes the first women to chair Progress.

In a statement accepting the role, McGovern said that Woodcock had “been a great chair”, and was “determined” to make sure the organisation played a constructive role in the future of the Labour Party.

The news comes on the same day that Progress published a pamphlet arguing that the last Labour Government needed to be put to rest, in order for the party to move forward.

McGovern said:

“John Woodcock has been a great chair, especially leading Progress’ huge efforts campaigning for Labour’s candidates through the general election. I am determined to make sure Progress plays a positive and constructive role in the debate about Labour’s future, and to provide a route into politics for those who have too often been left out.”

She was congratulated by outgoing chair John Woodcock, the Barrow MP, who applauded her “razor-sharp mind”. He said:

“Many congratulations to the new chair of Progress, Alison McGovern. Ally is one of Labour’s very best: she cares deeply for the people and causes she represents, has a razor-sharp mind and always gives her all. She will do a brilliant job and I am delighted she has stepped up at such an important time for our party.

“It has been a privilege to serve as chair of the hardest working, bravest and most tolerant part of the party we love. Our party can never hope to win back the chance to change the country unless Progress remains a respected part of the diverse Labour family.”