Plymouth MP Luke Pollard loses shadow cabinet job in Labour reshuffle

Plymouth MP Luke Pollard pictured in the House of Commons.

Plymouth MP Luke Pollard has lost his job in Labour's shadow cabinet following a reshuffle by leader Sir Keir Starmer.

The MP was appointed Shadow Environment Secretary in January 2020 by former party leader Jeremy Corbyn.

But he was replaced last night (November 29) as Sir Keir made a number of key changes to his cabinet.

Posting on social media, Mr Pollard said he was "grateful for the opportunity to serve" but will now focus on "new issues".

He said: "As a West Country MP, I know that Defra issues do not often attract the headlines or the attention in Westminster that they deserve.

"Fishing, farming, food, air quality and nature matter and they should matter more to the Labour Party.

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"I tried to make these issues ones that our party are more comfortable speaking about, by proudly backing our farmers and fishers, being bold on nature and the environment and determined to ensure that every family can afford good quality, nutritious food."

The Plymouth MP also thanked the Labour leader for his support in the aftermath of the mass shooting in Keyham in August.

Luke Pollard was given a month away from Defra duties to support the community in Keyham. Credit: PA

"Since August I have been supporting the communities in Plymouth that have been affected by the mass shooting in Keyham," wrote Mr Pollard.

"The tragedy has taken a huge toll on our community and on me personally.

"I was grateful you allowed me to step back for a month in the summer, to not only focus on the community I represent but to look after my own mental health."