Recess is over and parliamentarians are making their way down to Westminster. As they do, we consider which ones in particular from the Labour Party we shall be keeping an eye on. Whether it be their unique professional or personal experience, the issues on which they campaigned, or their performance in winning their seat or in the Chamber, we would recommend that these are 10 more Labour MPs you should watch for the future.
Jess Asato MP
Constituency: Lowestoft
This is not the first time Asato has appeared in an article in which her future as a Labour star has been highly anticipated – In 2009, she was ranked 78 among the ‘Top 100 most influential Left-wingers’ by The Daily Telegraph. Her success in July in winning Lowestoft was highly symbolic of a renaissance for the Labour Party in a county it formerly performed well in. Her victory also marks a critical building block in Labour’s best-ever performance in Suffolk when it also won Ipswich, Bury St. Edmunds, and Suffolk Coastal – all formerly Conservative seats.
Born in Cavenham near Bury St. Edmunds, Asato involved herself in Labour circles early, serving as an executive member of the Young Fabians for six years, alongside her role as a Youth Representative for the London Regional Board of the Labour Party. In 2008, she became Director of ‘Progress’, a think tank aimed at promoting progressive debate and ideas.
Asato then took on responsibility for ‘Labour Yes’, the campaign to reform the UK’s voting system used for general elections to replace it with the alternative vote method. Appointed the campaign’s director, Asato assembled a powerful coalition of Labour voices including then Labour leader Ed Miliband, former leader Neil Kinnock, and many others including Tessa Jowell, Diane Abbott, Tony Benn, Oona King, Sadiq Khan, and Ken Livingstone, to advocate for this change. Despite this campaign’s unsuccessful result, Asato was able to bring together a broad network of support from across the Labour Party which showcased the support for electoral reform from within the Party – something that was fundamental to the its 2017 manifesto offering.
At this time, Asato also sat as a Councillor on Islington Borough County whilst she prepared herself to stand for Norwich North at the 2015 general election – a top Labour target. The Party does not put its least impressive performers into its most desired seats – a large vote of confidence in Asato’s ability to attract voters. Despite not winning the seat, she entered a career within public affairs and policy post-election at SafeLives – a charity dedicated to raising awareness of, transforming the response to, and ultimately ending domestic abuse. This nearly six year career ended when she became Head of Policy and Public Affairs at Barnardo’s – a non-profit specialising in creating safe spaces for children and young people, and helping families feel safer. She held this position for three years.
These roles provided Asato with almost nine years of experience in an area in which most politicians have none – domestic abuse and child neglect. Her knowledge within this sector will make her a crucial voice to listen to, especially at a time when domestic abuse remains at an appallingly high level. Her voice is one of the unique ones in Parliament – and she has joined the APPG on Domestic Violence and Abuse as an Officer.
James Asser MP
Constituency: West Ham & Beckton
Asser, the newly elected Labour MP for West Ham and Beckton, brings a background shaped by a combination of local government experience and involvement in national party politics. His professional history, which includes leadership roles in Newham’s Council and the Labour Party’s National Executive Committee, suggests a pragmatic and strategic approach to politics, with a focus on issues such as urban development, social justice, and party dynamics.
Before entering Parliament, Asser served as Statutory Deputy Mayor and Deputy Leader of Newham Borough, where he was responsible for the environment, sustainable transport, and public spaces. These roles provided him with a hands-on understanding of local governance and urban challenges, particularly in areas related to waste management, green spaces, and infrastructure. His work in Newham’s Cabinet also highlights his engagement with issues of environmental sustainability – an area that has gained increasing attention within both local and national politics.
In addition to his local government experience, Asser played an influential role in the Labour Party. His time on the National Executive Committee, culminating in his position as Chair, reflects his involvement in shaping party policy and addressing internal party issues. His leadership on the Equalities Committee, which focused on improving equality within the Party and across society, also positions him as someone with a focus on social justice.
Asser’s constituency, West Ham and Beckton, is one of London’s most diverse and economically challenged areas. This provides him with both opportunities and significant pressures as he seeks to address the needs of his constituents. Issues like poverty, housing, and regeneration are central to his mandate. His experience in local politics, particularly around urban regeneration projects and community engagement, will likely influence his approach to these matters at the national level.
His maiden speech emphasised the historical significance of the area and his commitment to continuing the Labour Party’s work in representing working-class communities. However, his challenge will be balancing the area’s historical legacy with the need for modern, forward-thinking policies on economic development, housing, and social inclusion.
Overall, Asser’s background in both local and national politics, combined with his focus on social issues, makes him a notable figure within the Labour Party. As his parliamentary career develops, it will be interesting to see how his pragmatic approach to urban and social issues shapes his work and influence within the broader political landscape.
Catherine Atkinson MP
Constituency: Derby North
In politics, determination is a much treasured quality. For Atkinson, she retained this throughout three unsuccessful parliamentary campaigns in neighbouring Erewash. She had enjoyed political success long before opting to run for a place on the green benches, and served a four year term as a Councillor on Kensington and Chelsea Council from 2006 to 2010. Alongside these accomplishments, Atkinson is a barrister with 17 years of legal experience and is a mother of three children. Her husband is an Afghanistan war veteran and firefighter – the latter prompting her to involve herself in a local campaign to prevent the closure of a local fire station in Long Eaton.
With her legal experience, Atkinson chaired the Socialist Societies Executive, twenty societies affiliated to the Labour Party including SLL, Fabians, SERA, and the Labour Housing Group, before becoming National Chair of the Society of Labour Lawyers which advises the Government. Yet, law is not the only area that Atkinson has devoted her attention to. In her maiden speech, she spoke of the necessity to talk openly about mental health issues, her own city’s role in tackling climate change, and rail manufacturing. Atkinson said “Two centuries of train building in Derby ground to a halt this year. Jobs were lost and, at the train manufacturer Alstom, nearly 1,000 years of welding experience walked out the door in a single day. Workers, their representatives and many others, not least my right hon. My friend, the Transport Secretary, called for action. There is now a new order for trains for the Elizabeth line. The Mayor of London called my lobbying for new trains “a little intense.” I am afraid that is something this House may have to get used to.” These are hot button issues for many across the UK. Mental health is firmly on the political agenda, whilst the climate is ranked by almost a fifth of voters to be the most important issue facing the UK. Meanwhile, I think the outstanding majority of voters would support Atkinson’s calls for new trains across the country and having them manufactured in great industrial cities such as Derby.
Torcuil Crichton MP
Constituency: Na h-Eileanan an Iar
Crichton stands out as a compelling and dynamic new addition to the Labour benches in Westminster, bringing a unique blend of personal authenticity, professional experience, and deep cultural roots to his role as MP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar. His background as a journalist and broadcaster, coupled with his connection to the Western Isles, ensures that his voice in Parliament will be one to watch.
His professional history is remarkable. Spanning decades as a journalist, he served as Westminster Editor for the Daily Record, reporting UK politics with a Scottish perspective. He also worked for the Herald, the Sunday Herald, and the West Highland Free Press, gaining a reputation for incisive analysis and strategic communication. His skills in writing, editorial management, and media make him a master communicator – an asset in shaping political narratives and articulating the concerns of his constituents. Moreover, his contributions to Gaelic broadcasting, including a BAFTA-nominated drama and a poignant documentary on Donald Trump’s mother, underline his commitment to cultural preservation and storytelling – something that should help him in politics.
Crichton embodies the identity of the Western Isles. Born on the Isle of Lewis, he is deeply rooted in the Gaelic language and the island’s traditions. His maiden speech in Parliament beautifully reflected this heritage, using Gaelic to honor his predecessors and pledging to champion the interests of his constituency. His vision for the islands is ambitious yet grounded, focusing on harnessing renewable energy, advancing land reform, and fostering community empowerment. His call for a community energy unit echoes his advocacy for giving local communities a stake in their resources, a principle rooted in his experience with land reform initiatives.
Crichton’s parliamentary debut signals a refreshing blend of humour, humility, and conviction. His speeches, seasoned with wit and maritime metaphors, demonstrate his ability to connect with diverse audiences while addressing serious issues such as energy security and economic development. His collaborative spirit, shaped by years in journalism and his connections with former Labour MPs, positions him as a bridge-builder, both within his party and across the political spectrum. At a time when authenticity and effective communication are increasingly valued in politics, Crichton’s career trajectory, cultural commitment, and strategic vision make him a fascinating Labour MP to watch.
Blair McDougall MP
Constituency: East Renfrewshire
McDougall, elected as the Member of Parliament for East Renfrewshire in 2024, brings a wealth of experience in political strategy, governance, and international development. A lifelong advocate for progressive policies, He has been at the forefront of numerous pivotal campaigns and initiatives that have shaped modern political discourse in the UK and abroad. He began his career in political organising and strategy, eventually serving as a Special Adviser in the Governments of Tony Blair and Gordon Brown. During this period, he worked across five government departments, including in the Department for Work and Pensions, Culture, Media, and Sport, and the Foreign Office.
As the Director of Strategy and Policy for the Scottish Labour Party, he oversaw the its communications, policy platform, and electoral strategies. His leadership during critical election campaigns further established him as a key figure in the political landscape. Most notably, he served as the Chief Executive and Campaign Director for Better Together, successfully leading the campaign to maintain Scotland’s place in the United Kingdom during the 2014 Scottish independence referendum.
McDougall’s work extends far beyond the UK. As a governance adviser in Rwanda under the Tony Blair Africa Governance Initiative, he worked closely with the Office of the President to enhance governance structures and strategic communications. His international consultancy work has included collaboration with political parties, human rights campaigners, and democratic activists in emerging and post-conflict societies across the globe. Countries such as Ukraine, Libya, Armenia, and North Macedonia have benefited from his expertise in fostering democratic resilience and governance reforms. His commitment to global justice is reflected in his advocacy for marginalised groups, including his role on the UK Advisory Board for the World Uyghur Congress. He has also championed ethical practices in global supply chains, advocating for policies to eliminate forced labour in regions such as Xinjiang.
Representing East Renfrewshire, McDougall is dedicated to ensuring the area remains a beacon of opportunity and inclusivity. Acknowledging its rich cultural diversity, he has spoken out against rising anti-Semitism and Islamophobia, emphasising the importance of unity and mutual respect. His maiden speech highlighted the unique character of East Renfrewshire, celebrating its exceptional schools, vibrant community organisations, and legacy as a place of aspiration and progress.
Anneliese Midgley MP
Constituency: Knowsley
Midgley inherited this ultra-safe Labour seat from the formidable Sir George Howarth who served the constituency for nearly 40 years. She brings her own strengths to the role following a career at the Trade Union Congress where she provided political advice to its leader. Her Knowsley campaign was backed by 11 union groups, including Unison and Unite the Union. She stems from a background providing key political advice to some of the most prominent Labour politicians – for Ken Livingstone during his tenure as Mayor of London, then Jeremy Corbyn throughout his leadership as his deputy Chief of Staff, and then as Special Senior Adviser to Sir Keir Starmer. In this role she has witnessed and played an important role in the evolution of the Labour Party, and no doubt will be a prominent voice on the backbenches speaking on its future direction.
Born in Cantril Farm into a working class, union family, she developed an interest in music and DJ-ing from a part-time job at a Beatles shop. However, it was her affection for unions that may have been the most significant result from her youth. She has said that “trade unions built the Labour Party” and described them as her “second family” This has informed her political viewpoint, and she has been vocal in her desire to focus on those living a typical working life: “My politics is the politics of people and of the shop floor, the bus stop, the school gate and the supermarket.”
She has already spoken passionately about the day-to-day struggles of those facing domestic abuse. Her unique position as MP for an area that (between 2022 and 2023) had the highest number of deaths per capita due to domestic abuse, gives her a unique ability to lead on this issue and other issues such as criminal justice. In this regard, she is helping campaign for ‘Olivia’s Law’ – a law that would compel convicted criminals to attend court to face the judge and receive their sentence. On these matters, Midgley is advocating for some noble goals and fighting a battle everyone can join. We hope this provides her with a platform to continue speaking up on these issues from the despatch box – perhaps in a role within the Ministry for Justice.
John Slinger MP
Constituency: Rugby
Slinger, the newly elected Labour MP for Rugby, brings a blend of local political experience and professional expertise to his role in Parliament. His career thus far positions him as a figure with a practical understanding of both his constituency’s needs and broader political and strategic issues.
Before entering Parliament, Slinger served as a Labour Councillor on Rugby Borough Council, where he gained direct experience in local governance, particularly in planning and infrastructure. He was also involved in the Council’s Audit and Ethics Committee, which suggests an interest in transparency and accountability. These experiences provide him with a grounded understanding of the local challenges, such as Rugby’s rapid growth and the demand for better infrastructure and services.
Slinger’s professional background extends beyond local politics. He has worked as a strategic communications consultant for various clients, including Tony Blair Associates, and has advised international clients on geopolitical and media-related matters. This experience provides him with a broader view of global affairs, which may inform his approach to policy on international relations and domestic issues like trade, immigration, and foreign policy. His recent role on the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe further underscores his involvement in international politics and diplomacy.
In his maiden speech in Parliament, Slinger highlighted Rugby’s history of innovation and its modern potential, particularly in technology and industry. He underscored the importance of collaboration between local government, businesses, and educational institutions to address the needs of a growing population. This focus on local economic development and infrastructure is likely to remain a priority for him as an MP.
Slinger’s blend of local and international experience gives him a distinctive perspective, but his effectiveness as an MP will depend on how well he balances these elements. His emphasis on education, skills training, and infrastructure investment aligns with common Labour priorities, but it will be crucial to see how he navigates the broader political landscape and whether he can deliver on these commitments within a potentially challenging parliamentary environment.
Overall, Slinger’s mix of local political experience and global communications expertise makes him an MP to watch. While it remains to be seen how he will influence policy and party direction, his background suggests he will bring a thoughtful and strategic approach to his role.
Jessica Toale MP
Constituency: Bournemouth West
A York graduate in PPE (philosophy, politics, and economic), Toale has the experience prior to her political career to be a strong voice within Labour in shaping its platforms on numerous issues relating to foreign policy. Shortly after completing a Bar Practice Course at the London School of Economics and securing a Masters in urbanisation and development, Toale was appointed as Political Advisor to the then-Shadow Secretary of State for International Development, Ivan Lewis. This is an area that Toale continues to have a great awareness and interest in. She has been integral within InterSEC:Action, an initiative focused on understanding the scale and nature of sexual exploitation and abuse in the aid industry. She even delivered an international conference on this subject matter in 2021.
She then provided political advice to former MP Vernon Coaker during his time as Shadow Secretary of State for Northern Ireland before joining UNICEF as a consultant in 2014. This is not the first time that Toale has worked within similar organisations. From 2011 to 2012, she worked within Article 25, a post-disaster and post-conflict reconstruction NGO designed to provide built environment solutions for some of the world’s most vulnerable communities. In 2016, she joined the Centre for Development Results, an organisation to support UK companies working in international development to improve impact and accountability in their work. In 2020, she joined Concordis International, a peace-building and conflict resolution group with a particular focus on the Sahel region in Africa and South Sudan.
Her first election was as Councillor on Westminster Council in 2022 where she was given responsibility as the single point of contact for modern slavery – an appropriate decision following her more than a decade of experience in understanding and countering exploitation and abuse across the world. However, she would only sit on the Council for just over two years as she was then selected to contest Bournemouth West for Labour. Soon after her win, it was evident to many that Toale would bring an essential perspective to the Foreign Office, so she was appointed as Parliamentary Private Secretary within the Department. She also joined and chairs the All-Party Parliamentary Group on the UN Global Goals, established to build a cross-party effort to push for the UK government’s commitments to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, both at home and abroad.
Despite her foreign policy leanings, she has characterised her first six months in office by tabling numerous parliamentary questions focused on seeking answers within her own constituency. From improving the quality of coastal waters, to availability to dental care, to SEND provision, to antisocial behaviour – she has cemented herself as an MP who will not be defined solely by the career she held before politics which is commendable. Regardless, on the international front, Toale’s perspective and lived experience working in aid, international development, and tackling sexual exploitation will be essential as the new Labour Government navigates new and increasingly complex challenges abroad.
Matt Turmaine MP
Constituency: Watford
Turmaine’s election as the MP for Watford is the latest chapter in a career that spans public service, local government, and media. His diverse background and focus on local issues suggest he could be an impactful voice in the Labour Party and an MP worth observing as he navigates his new role.
In his maiden speech, Turmaine demonstrated his deep connection to Watford, a constituency he has served as a Councillor in since 2012. He spoke about the town’s diversity and unique challenges, balancing humour with insight. This speech highlighted his ability to connect with constituents while also signalling his intentions to address key issues such as public transport and community support services.
Professionally, Turmaine’s career has been rooted in tackling social and systemic challenges. His work with the Hertfordshire Safeguarding Children Board and the Integrated Care Programme reflects a focus on improving public services and supporting vulnerable populations. These roles have given him a strong understanding of health and social care systems, which he is likely to draw upon as an MP. His advocacy for inclusivity and his involvement with local organisations like Watford Deaf Club and Disability Watford underline his commitment to addressing inequality.
Turmaine’s background in media, including senior roles at BBC Worldwide, adds another layer to his profile. His experience in communications and project management may prove useful in navigating the complexities of parliamentary life and engaging with the public. During his campaign, he effectively connected with a range of community groups, highlighting his ability to engage with Watford’s diverse population.
Watford’s status as a marginal constituency also adds significance to Turmaine’s role. The town has historically reflected national political trends, making his performance as an MP potentially indicative of broader shifts within the Labour Party and the UK political landscape. His early efforts, which include active participation in parliamentary debates and community engagement, suggest a focus on both local and national priorities.
While it remains early in Turmaine’s parliamentary career, his combination of professional experience, local roots, and clear commitment to public service positions him as a noteworthy figure. How he balances the competing demands of constituency and national politics, and whether he can translate his diverse background into tangible achievements, will determine his impact in the years to come.
Chris Vince MP
Constituency: Harlow
Vince’s success in Harlow came following a tenure during which the constituency was served well by popular Conservative MP, Robert Halfon. However, with Halfon opting to not re-stand, Vince secured Labour a highly prized and symbolic win in a constituency once deemed a vital key to any potential prime minister wanting to enter Downing Street.
Stemming from a 15 year career as a maths teacher at four different schools across Essex, he brings a much valued and greatly sought after perspective to the Commons. As a teacher for 15 years, (10 of which were under a Conservative government), he evidenced that one of his focus areas as an MP would be education. Within days of assuming the role, he had raised awareness of the low teacher retention rate (with a third of teachers leaving within five years of going into the profession) in schools. His time in education means he ought to be listened to when the topic arises as someone who had been on the frontline during times of great upheaval in education – notably COVID-19, the change to numerical grading from GCSEs, and pay disputes.
One other important area Vince has assigned a great emphasis on is that of young carers. Nurtured by his time teaching where he saw first hand how children in his form class were, themselves, young carers, he secured a role as a Young Carers Service Manager with Action for Family Carers – a role he held up until he became MP for Harlow. In his maiden speech, he devoted some time to the topic: Weaving his background in teaching with this subject he noted that a recent school census found that 72% of schools had no pupils who were young carers to their parents / relatives. He professed that his experience says otherwise. “It is predicted that there are more than 10,000 young carers in Essex alone. Essex County Council has identified roughly 3,700 of them, so there is a huge number of young carers whom we have not identified, let alone got the resource in place for.” He capped off his speech by thanking young carers across the country, and also the Liberal Democrat leader, Sir Ed Davey MP (who is a carer for his son), describing them as “heroes.”
A Leeds United fan away, and Harlow Town supporter at home, Vince served as District Councillor on Harlow Council, and led the Labour group in the Chamber from 2021 to 2024 – at a time in which the Party was struggling to reassert its footing in the once Labour-friendly area. Whilst his time as leader ended without a Labour council, he did manage to bring the Party to its highest number of seats secured in Harlow since 2019, and came just 16 votes away from returning the Council into Labour control. Battle-tested at a local level, he also contested the Westminster constituencies of Chelmsford in 2015 and 2017, and Hertford and Stortford in 2019, so he is prepared for an inevitably heated battle to hold the seat – one which the national Labour Party will be deeply keen to help him win.
Each of these new members have the platform and the experience to effect some positive change to each of their sectors. With these new minds rising in the party, they present an exciting vision for the future and the team at College Green Group are excited to watch as they continue to champion their communities and contribute to important debates on topics ranging from education and the environment, to international development and the housing crisis.