Lord Stockwood of Grimsby? Political surprise as Mariners co-owner joins the Government Front Bench

 

Entering the corridors of power - Jason Stockwood

IT'S destination Westminster for Grimsby Town co-owner and businessman Jason Stockwood.

In a move that has startled the political world, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has this weekend appointed him  the UK’s Minister for Investment in the Department of Business and Trade.

He is not and MP  and will shortly be conferred with a life peerage by King Charles so that he can be democratically accountable in the House of Lords.

Mr Stockwood missed out on being elected Mayor of Lincolnshire in May this year, but this role will more than compensate, giving him an important role in government.

His business acumen, imaginative and dynamism  has obviously impressed Sir Keir - otherwise he would  not have been preferred to  countless Labour backbench MPs, some of whom must feel nonplussed, not to say aggrieved, at having been overlooked.

One of those who may  be disappointed at missing out on promotion  to the government is Grimsby and Cleethorpes MP Melanie Onn who has performed brightly since returning to the Commons in July last year. 

Mr Stockwood's elevation comes as part of the Prime Minister's shake-up of his front  in the wake of the resignation of deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner.  

Following the announcement, Grimsby Town FC were quick to issue a statement which reads: 

"To avoid any potential conflict of interest and to ensure the club remains politically neutral, Jason will be stepping back from his day-to-day responsibilities at GTFC while he serves as a Minister in the UK Government. 

"As a result, he will not be attending the fans forum on Friday.

"Jason remains fully committed to Grimsby Town but, in line with the requirements of his new role, will step down from the club’s board with immediate effect. 

"He will also step down as a trustee of the Foundation. 

"Everyone at GTFC congratulates Jason on this important national appointment and thanks him for his continuing  passion, dedication, and service to the Mariners."