Stockport Labour MP Navendu Mishra has said it is important to recognise Keir Starmer's service, but that now the focus must be 'firmly fixed on the future'.

In a statement this morning (22 June), Mr Mishra said: "It is important to recognise Sir Keir Starmer's service to both our nation and the Labour Party.

"He led Labour back into government with a historic mandate from the British people after years of Conservative and Liberal Democrat chaos, economic mismanagement and political instability. That was no small achievement.

"For his dedication to public service and his commitment to returning Labour to power, he deserves our thanks and respect.

The leadership contest ahead presents an opportunity not simply to choose a new leader, but to renew Labour's sense of purpose.

"It is a chance to reconnect with the concerns of the country, refocus on the priorities that matter most and show that Labour remains the party of fairness, opportunity and national renewal."

He added: "Whoever emerges as our next leader and Prime Minister must unite our movement, restore public confidence and provide the clear leadership needed to navigate continued cost-of-living pressures, rapid social change and increasing international uncertainty.

"The British people entrusted Labour with a historic mandate because they wanted change. We must never take that trust for granted. Now is the time to listen, to learn and to lead with renewed purpose.

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"The task before us is clear: to rebuild trust in politics, renew confidence in government and ensure that every community has a stake in Britain's future.

"Together, we must build a fairer, stronger and more hopeful country for generations to come, and my focus as always will remain on what is best for Stockport."

You can read Mr Mishra's statement in full here.