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PA Newswire
UK News

Labour: Some 'very talented' people have stepped back, says Bishop of Portsmouth

by Desmond Busteed

The Church of England bishop has described left-winger Corbyn as a person of integrity and who speaks with reflection, but says he is not sure how the future of the party will play out.

Bishop Christopher told Premier that Corbyn's election had brought major change to the composition of the front bench and the leadership of the party.

"Bishop Christopher Foster" by Bashereyre at English Wikipedia.

"Some very talented people have stepped back, as we've learned over the weekend, giving opportunity to some new faces and indeed some older faces returning," said Bishop Christopher.

Jeremy Corbyn has accused critics of "living in the 18th Century" amid jibes that he has overlooked women for Labour's biggest jobs.

The new leader insisted he did not regard the traditional Treasury, home affairs and foreign affairs briefs as the most important - and pointed out that the majority of his shadow cabinet was female.

Mr Corbyn also said it was a "bit of an achievement" that he had managed to gather an "inclusive" team despite a slew of senior figures indicating they would not serve.

In total, 16 posts in Mr Corbyn's senior team have gone to women, with 15 filled by men.

By contrast, there are 30 Government ministers who are either members of or attend Cabinet. Ten are women.

Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire

Bishop Christopher said he would be watching how this would the new Opposition would play out adding that it was very important that any Government was well challenged.

"My greatest hope and my biggest concern is that those questions, that challenge is well offered, honestly, straightforwardly and with an understanding of the needs of our communities," he added.

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