Since September 2025, I have been Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology
Find out more about the Department's work here
Being a Secretary of State in the first Labour government since 2010 is a huge privilege.
It means that my role in Parliament is somewhat different to MPs who aren’t in the cabinet.
Protocol dictates that, because of my cabinet position, I am unable to speak in the chamber on any issues outside of my brief. I am also unable to sign Early Day Motions (EDMs), ask written questions or join All Party Parliamentary Groups (APPGs).
So, whilst many constituents email to ask me to do these things, unfortunately I can’t.
However, because I attend cabinet meetings, I regularly speak to other ministers and secretaries of state. So, even if I can’t raise an issue in the chamber, I can often talk directly cabinet colleagues.