One of the Labour Party's longest-serving National Executive Committee (NEC) members, Ann Black, has announced that she will not seek re-election, bringing to an end more than two decades of service at the heart of the party's governing body.
Mrs Black, who has represented constituency Labour members on the NEC for much of the period since 2000 and served as Chair of the committee in 2009–10, said the time had come for a new generation to take on the role.
Announcing her decision, she said:
"It's time for future generations to see the party through the next election."
For many Labour members, Mrs Black became synonymous with transparency within the party. After almost every NEC meeting, she published detailed reports explaining the issues discussed, decisions taken and debates held behind closed doors.
Those reports became widely read by party members across the political spectrum, earning a reputation for providing balanced accounts of the NEC's work and helping members better understand the party's internal decision-making.
Reflecting on her years of service, Mrs Black described her time on the NEC as both a privilege and a responsibility, thanking members who had supported her over the years.
Although stepping down from elected office within the party, she has indicated that she intends to remain an active Labour member and has continued to publish reports on recent NEC meetings, including those held during this year's leadership transition.
The Labour National Executive Committee is responsible for overseeing many of the party's internal affairs, including governance, disciplinary procedures, candidate selections and organisational strategy.
Mrs Black's departure marks the end of an era for the committee, with many members viewing her as one of its longest-serving independent voices and a consistent advocate for openness in party governance.
As Labour prepares for its next chapter under Prime Minister Andy Burnham, a new generation of NEC representatives will now have the opportunity to help shape the party's future.