A Cumbrian MP has been appointed as a parliamentary private secretary, a role regarded as a stepping stone towards becoming a minister.

Julie Minns, Labour MP for Carlisle, is the first Carlisle MP to hold such a role since Eric Martlew, who served as the city's MP from 1987 to 2010 and as PPS to the chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, David Clark, before becoming PPS to the Lords leader and minister for women, Baroness Jay of Paddington. 

Ms Minns has been asked by the prime minister Sir Keir Starmer to support the secretary of state for transport and the four strong ministerial team, as a parliamentary private secretary (PPS), and her appointment was confirmed in an announcement from No.10 last Friday.

A PPS is an unpaid role held by an MP who serves as a vital link between government ministers and backbench MPs.

Although not officially part of the government, the position is considered a stepping stone for those aspiring to ministerial roles.

A PPS supports ministers by attending meetings, debates, and events, relaying the views of backbench MPs to ministers while conveying the government’s position to their colleagues.

They also play a role in maintaining party discipline, fostering unity, and ensuring MPs understand and support government policies.

While the role does not involve decision-making powers or additional salary, it is viewed as a sign of trust from party leadership and an opportunity to gain valuable experience in the workings of government.

However, a PPS is expected to remain loyal to the government, as speaking or voting against it would require resignation.

She said she's 'delighted' to have been asked to serve in this role, and added: "As the MP for one of England’s most geographically remote constituencies, transport and connectivity sits at the heart of the Labour government’s plan to get our economy back on track.  

“I look forward to assisting the government with its plans to fix Britain’s railways, buses and road networks, to boost our regional and national economic growth."