Andy Burnham has been MP for Leigh since 2001. Born in Liverpool, Andy attended St Aelred's Roman Catholic High School and gained an MA in English at Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge.

Having worked as a local journalist and in publishing, Andy’s first political experience came working in Tessa Jowell’s office whilst in opposition.

In government, Andy has held Ministerial positions at the Home Office, Department of Health and the Treasury before becoming Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport in 2008. He returned to Health as Secretary of State in 2009. In September 2010 Andy was appointed Shadow Secretary of State for Education, and in October 2011 he was appointed Shadow Secretary of State for Health.