John Healey Appointed Shadow Defence Secretary

John Healey has been appointed as Shadow Defence Secretary by new Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer.

Mr Healey, who previously served as Shadow Housing Secretary under Jeremy Corbyn, will take over from Nia Griffith.

In a tweet, Mr Healey said he was “proud” of the appointment and acknowledged the work the Armed Forces are doing in the fight against coronavirus.

“Our world-class Armed Forces keep us safe and are doing a vital job helping the country through the coronavirus pandemic,” he said.

Mr Healey is the MP for Wentworth and Dearne, South Yorkshire.

He was elected in 1997 and has held previous positions in both the shadow cabinet and former Labour government.

The announcement comes as Sir Keir shapes his new shadow cabinet which includes former Labour leader Ed Miliband as Shadow Business Secretary.

Sir Keir said his appointments highlight "the breadth, depth and talents of [the Labour] party”.

Cover image: John Healey (Picture: UK Parliament).