Leigh and Atherton MP Jo Platt becomes parliamentary private secretary to new PM Andy Burnham

Leigh and Atherton MP Jo Platt has been appointed Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, joining his team at No 10 Downing Street. 

The PPS to the Prime Minister is an important parliamentary role held by a Member of Parliament, acting as a vital link between the Prime Minister and fellow MPs. The PPS helps ensure that the views, concerns and priorities of backbench Members are communicated directly to the government.  

The role also supports the Prime Minister in parliamentary business and engagement across Westminster.  

Ms Platt's appointment comes as the new Prime Minister begins to deliver an ambitious programme focused on easing the cost-of-living pressures facing families, boosting economic growth, and delivering greater opportunities in every corner of the country. 

In his first weeks in office, Prime Minister Andy Burnham has announced a series of measures aimed at supporting households and businesses, including a £2 bus fare cap, business rates relief for pubs, bars and live music venues and a reduction in VAT on electricity bills.  

The Government has also outlined plans to tackle youth unemployment with major reforms to technical education. Under the proposals, students from the age of 14 will be able to combine core academic subjects with technical and vocational learning linked directly to local employment opportunities, including practical work experience with employers.  

The reforms aim to place greater value on technical skills and provide clearer pathways into skilled careers. 

Recent weeks have also seen the announcement of No.10 North, together with plans to reduce rough sleeping, accelerate the devolution agenda, and tackle the social care crisis head on.  

Ms Platt, who represents Leigh and Atherton and holds Andy Burnham's former parliamentary seat, has long been a vocal advocate for greater investment, regeneration and opportunity for the region.

Representing a constituency neighbouring Ashton-in-Makerfield, she shares the Prime Minister's ambition to deliver renewed prosperity for areas that have too often been overlooked. 

Ms Platt said: 

"I am delighted to be appointed Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Prime Minister. It is a privilege to take on this role, and I am looking forward to getting started. 

While taking on this new responsibility, my foremost priority remains delivering for the people of Leigh and Atherton and being a strong voice for our community.  

The Prime Minister has set out a bold vision for the country, focused on raising living standards, expanding opportunity and empowering communities through greater devolution. I am proud to play my part in helping to deliver that agenda.” 

The announcement completes the Prime Minister's key parliamentary appointments following his entry into Downing Street.

Attention will now turn to Greater Manchester, where the election to choose Andy Burnham's successor as Mayor of Greater Manchester will be declared on July 31.