Former charities minister Stuart Andrew has been appointed shadow culture secretary, a move that has been welcomed by the charity sector.
Andrew was the minister for civil society as part of the previous Conservative government for two years before the general election in July.
He changed seats at the election, as his previous Pudsey constituency was replaced, and is now MP for Daventry.
After a brief stint as shadow chief whip following the election, the new Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch appointed Andrew this week as shadow culture secretary, with responsibility for charities.
‘Deep understanding of the charity sector’
The Charity Finance Group’s head of policy Richard Sagar said: “We congratulate Stuart Andrew on his appointment to Shadow Secretary of State for the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).
“As the previous minister for civil society for two years, who brought extensive experience of the charity sector to the role, we’re pleased that we will have to opportunity to continue working with him.”
Sarah Elliott, chief executive of NCVO, said: “Our congratulations go to Stuart Andrew on the announcement of his appointment as shadow secretary of state at DCMS.
“Having previously served as charities minister, Stuart brings a deep understanding of the charity sector, and the challenges and opportunities we face.
“We look forward to working with him in the future to ensure the charity and voluntary sector continues to make a lasting impact on the people and communities they support.”
ACEVO chief executive Jane Ide also congratulated Andrew on his appointment.
“As someone who has worked constructively with our sector before in his time in government, we know he understands the sector well and the opportunities and challenges that face us,” she said.
“We look forward to resuming discussions and working with him to ensure that the voice of civil society leaders is heard across government.”
Meanwhile, New Philanthropy Capital head of policy and external affairs Leah Davis said: “We hope that his knowledge of the sector can provide a foundation for constructive engagement in the years to come.
“The sector is open to a conversation that moves on from the culture wars and towards building the infrastructure for civil society to work effectively with government.”
‘Excited to take on my new role’
Andrew posted on social media: “Excited to take on my new role as shadow secretary of state for culture, media and sport after serving as the shadow chief whip.
“Looking forward to holding the Labour government to account and developing the Conservative vision for these vital industries.”
Culture secretary Lisa Nandy congratulated Andrew on his appointment on social media.
“We both share a passion for the richer, larger lives music, art, sport and culture unlocks. Looking forward to working with you,” she said.
Last month, Andrew signed a petition calling on the government to allocate the Financial Conduct Authority’s annual fines to UK hospices.
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