Matthew Pennycook: Labour MP resigns as Shadow Brexit Minister to ‘focus efforts’ on campaigning for Remain

Matthew Pennycook has announced he is stepping down as Shadow Brexit Minister.

The Labour MP described the job as an “immense privilege” but said he wanted to focus on campaigning for Remain and for a public vote on the UK’s future in the EU.

In a letter to the party’s leader Jeremy Corbyn on Wednesday night he said the fact his second child is due soon also influenced his decision.

His announcement came as MPs were back in the Commons debating Brexit after Boris Johnson’s prorogation was ruled unlawful.

Mr Pennycook wrote: “I now want the opportunity to focus my efforts on campaigning vigorously for that public vote and unequivocally for the UK to stay in the EU when it is secured.

“With our second child due in a matter of weeks, I think I can best do so as a backbencher rather than with the added responsibilities of being a frontbench spokesperson.”

He added: “I have nothing but respect for the dedicated and talented members of the team in which I have served for nearly three years”.

The MP has represented Greenwich and Woolwich since May 2015 and has served on the frontbench since October 2016.

His colleague Alex Norris MP tweeted: “I’ve known Matt Pennycook for a long time.

“Exceptionally smart, rock solid integrity and Labour to his core.

“Very sorry to lose him as a Frontbench colleague but I know he’ll make a significant impact for his constituents and Labour from the backbenches.”