Labour general secretary Jennie Formby resigns

Labour Party general secretary Jennie Formby, a close ally of former leader Jeremy Corbyn, has stood down after a two-year period she described as "very challenging".

Jennie Formby has resigned as Labour general secretary

During her time as general secretary, the party was rocked by anti-Semitism claims and rows over Mr Corbyn's leadership. Ms Formby also underwent treatment for cancer.

She said: “When I applied for the role of General Secretary in 2018 it was because I wanted to support Jeremy Corbyn, who inspired so many people to get involved in politics with his message of hope, equality and peace.

“It has been a huge privilege to be general secretary of the largest political party in Europe for the last two years but now we have a new leadership team it is the right time to step down.

"I would like to thank Jeremy, our members and my staff colleagues who have given me so much support during what has been a very challenging period, in particular when I was suffering from ill health.

"I wish Keir and Angela the very best of luck in taking the party forward and leading Labour to victory at the next general election".

In an internal email to Labour Party workers, Ms Formby said her exit date had been agreed with the new leader Sir Keir Starmer on his election.

Mr Starmer said: "I would like to thank Jennie for her service, and for the personal and professional efforts she has made in advancing the cause she has fought all her life for.

"Jennie has led our party's organisation with commitment and energy through a period of political upheaval, including a snap general election last year. I wish her the very best for the future"

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