I have known Keir since before we were both elected in 2015. He is a man of dignity, duty, and commitment to our country and our party.
Through sheer hard work, bravery, and determination, he transformed our Party, rebuilt public trust, and led us to the greatest election victory in my lifetime.
As Prime Minister, he has led a government that has delivered for all parts of our country – and has achieved so much over the past two years. A stronger and growing economy, wages rising faster than inflation, fair pay and the biggest uplift in rights and protections at work in a generation.
But for me, his leadership in restoring the UK’s reputation on the international stage will be his most important legacy. Leadership on Ukraine. Leadership within Europe. Leadership in bringing countries together to seek long-term peace in the Middle East.
It has been an honour to serve him as Secretary of State for Wales. Keir has ensured an enduring legacy through his support to end Tory austerity in Wales, the biggest financial settlement for Welsh Government in the history of devolution, securing the future of Welsh steelmaking, new nuclear at Wylfa, a generational commitment to making our Welsh railways fit for the future, and positioning Wales as a leader in green energy.
I hope that the great work of this Labour Government, in Wales and across the UK, can continue with a united Parliamentary Labour Party, determined to sustain our values of fairness and opportunity for all.