Redcar MP Jacob Young has been appointed as the new levelling up minister, replacing Dehenna Davison, who resigned due to chronic migraines. Young, an MP for Redcar since the 2019 general election, will take up the position as parliamentary under secretary of state in the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.
Davison, who represented Bishop Auckland, stated that her chronic migraines made it impossible for her to continue serving as a levelling up minister. She had already announced that she would not stand for re-election in the next general election. In her resignation letter to Rishi Sunak, she expressed her desire to focus on delivering on her pledges in Bishop Auckland and advocating for better justice and support for victims of one-punch assaults.
Jacob Young, the first Conservative MP to represent Redcar, secured a victory in the 2019 general election with a swing of 15.4% from Labour to Conservatives. He has already served as a parliamentary private secretary in the Department for Levelling Up. Young’s appointment comes at a crucial time for the levelling up agenda, and it is hoped that his talent and drive will contribute to its success.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen welcomed Young’s appointment, stating that he believes Young understands the importance of the levelling up agenda and has what it takes to make a positive impact. Davison also reacted positively to Young’s appointment, describing it as fantastic and expressing her confidence in his ability to continue the work.
The Redcar MP Jacob Young’s appointment as levelling up minister marks a significant change in leadership in this crucial role. It is hoped that Young’s tenure will bring fresh energy and drive to the process of levelling up communities, particularly in regions like Redcar, and that he will be able to make a meaningful difference in addressing the challenges faced by these areas.
