ST HELENS North MP Conor McGinn has been appointed to the House of Commons Defence Select Committee.

Mr McGinn, 30, who worked for Shadow Defence Secretary Vernon Coaker, will serve as one of four Labour members on the committee. and says he is looking forward to playing a key role in scrutinising government defence policy.

“I am honoured to be appointed to the Defence Select Committee," said Mr McGinn.

“In a dangerous world, the threats we face are complicated and challenging.

“I hope the government’s upcoming Strategic Defence and Security Review will facilitate an open and inclusive national debate on the security and defence challenges facing the country, and will properly assess the changing threats to our security.

“I look forward to working with colleagues from all parties on the committee. It is vital that we hold the government account and help ensure our armed forces are properly equipped to deal with modern threats and challenges we face.”