'Fit for government': Sheffield's politicians react to Labour leadership result

The 57-year old defeated Lisa Nandy and Rebecca Long-Bailey in a ballot of party members and other supporters. He won 56.2 per cent of the vote, according to Britain Elects.

The lawyer has been an MP since 2015 and represents London’s Holborn and St Pancras consituency. He has also served as the Shadow Brexit Secretary.

Sheffield Central MP Paul Blomfield said: “I’m delighted that Keir has been elected with such strong support from all sections of our membership.

“Having worked alongside him for the last three years I know that Keir has the values, skills and determination to rebuild trust in the Labour Party and our support across the country.”

Mr Blomfield said he has “worked closely” with Starmer in his Shadow Ministerial team since 2016.

He added: “Clearly the most urgent task is tackling Covid-19. Keir’s approach will be to work positively with the Government, while constructively challenging them to make the right decisions for the country and the NHS.

Olivia Blake, who represents Sheffield Hallam, tweeted: “Congratulations @Keir_Starmer & @AngelaRayner on your elections to Leader & Deputy!

“I look forward to campaigning for a transformative @UKLabour Government with you both.”

Heeley MP Louise Haigh and Gill Furniss, who represents Brightside and Hillsborough, also tweeted their congratulations. Ms Furniss said she was confident the party could meet the “massive challenges ahead”, if they work together.

Dr Alan Billings, Police and Crime Commissioner for South Yorkshire, described the new leader as a “substantial and credible figure with solid experience in the real world.”

“He can begin the work of making the Labour Party fit for government again,” Dr Billings added.

“I hope he will work with the government and other parties in bringing the present emergency situation to an end as soon as possible while continuing the essential democratic task of holding the government to account.”

Sir Keir is set to meet PM Boris Johnson next week to discuss the coronavirus crisis.

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