Northern Ireland minister replaced in Burnham reshuffle

Northern Ireland has a new under-secretary of state, as part of new Prime Minister Andy Burnham's reshuffle.

Sarah Owen represents Luton North and is the first UK MP of South-East Asian descent.

She replaces Matthew Patrick, who had been in the role since September 2025. On social media, he wished her "every success as you take on the crucial work of supporting, championing and advocating for Northern Ireland".

It comes days after the Secretary of State Hilary Benn was replaced by Sir Chris Bryant.

He added that it was an "honour" to serves his country and work with Benn and thanked those he met during the job.

"The progress we have seen over decades in Northern Ireland is owed to those who make it possible each and every day."

In a reply to the post, Northern Ireland's Education Minister, Paul Givan, said he was "sorry to see" Patrick go.

"You made the effort to build relationships, engage, understand the issues and different perspectives," Givan said.