Selby MP Keir Mather has been appointed Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department for Transport (DfT) in Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s latest cabinet reshuffle, following the exit of former deputy leader Angela Rayner. In his new ministerial role, Mather will oversee freight and border policy, as well as work on decarbonisation and the rollout of electric vehicles.

Mather first entered Parliament in 2023 after winning the Selby and Ainsty by-election, becoming the youngest MP at just 25. He later secured the newly defined Selby seat at the 2024 General Election with a strong majority. Sharing his reaction online, Mather described his appointment as a “privilege,” adding that ensuring the country keeps moving was vital to supporting economic growth.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander welcomed him to the team, saying she was “delighted” to have him join the department. His appointment strengthens the DfT as it faces ongoing challenges around sustainable transport, supply chains, and the shift to low-emission vehicles.

Industry leaders have also responded positively. Richard Smith, Managing Director of the Road Haulage Association (RHA), congratulated Mather on his appointment and noted the importance of his new brief to the freight sector. He also highlighted the value of maintaining strong working ties with other DfT ministers, including Simon Lightwood MP and Lilian Greenwood, who will take responsibility for local transport.