Politics
Chair of Labour Friends of Israel promoted to PM’s office
Jon Pearce has stepped down from LFI after his appointment to Sir Keir Starmer’s team
September 12, 2025 11:30
Jon Pearce has stepped down from LFI after his appointment to Sir Keir Starmer’s team
September 12, 2025 11:30The outgoing chair of Labour Friends of Israel (LFI) has been appointed the prime minister's parliamentary private secretary in the latest government reshuffle.
Jon Pearce, who was elected last summer as the MP for High Peak in Derbyshire, has stepped down with immediate effect from his leadership role at LFI following his promotion.
Reflecting on his time as chair, Pearce, who is not Jewish, said: “It was an honour to serve as LFI Chair, albeit often in the most difficult and distressing circumstances.
“Supporting their vital work for a two-state solution and to achieve peace, security and a better future for Israelis and Palestinians alike.”
Congratulating Pearce on his new role, LFI director Michael Rubin said he had been a “phenomenal” and “courageous” chair for the group.
"I'd like to wish Jon a hearty congratulations on this very well-deserved appointment; we're delighted for him.
“Following his appointment, we are sorry that he is stepping down with immediate effect, but it is for the best possible reason, and everyone at LFI wishes him every success."
The parliamentary group, which works to foster dialogue between the Labour Party and progressive organisations in Israel and the West Bank and advocates for a two-state solution, will now begin the process of selecting a new chair.
Pearce was among several Labour MPs who participated in an LFI-funded delegation to Israel at the end of May, where members met both Palestinian and Israeli leaders.
However, the group has also been targeted by anti-Israel campaigners.
Just this week, a fire broke out at the constituency office of Sharon Hodgson, Pearce’s vice-chair. Her office in Washington was severely damaged, and a man has been arrested on suspicion of arson.
Elsewhere in the cabinet reshuffle, several newly elected Jewish MPs were given promotions. Georgia Gould, MP for Queen’s Park and Maida Vale, has been appointed as an education minister, while Josh Simons, MP for Makerfield, has taken up a role as Parliamentary Secretary in the Cabinet Office.
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