Sir Chris Bryant has been appointed as the new Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, taking over from Hilary Benn. Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced the move late on Monday evening as part of a wider cabinet reshuffle.

Bryant, the MP for Rhondda and Ogmore, arrives at a critical moment. His predecessor had just begun discussions with Stormont party leaders and Treasury officials to secure a multi-year budget after months of stalemate. DUP leader Gavin Robinson said he hoped Bryant would build on Benn’s work and not restart the process.

Robinson also warned that Labour’s stated goal of resetting relations with the EU risked overlooking significant issues for Northern Ireland. He described the reshuffle as one whose impact would be felt for months.

Sinn Féin MLA Pat Sheehan said the identity of the secretary of state was less important than policy change. He called for full implementation of the Good Friday Agreement and preparation for a referendum on Irish unity.

TUV MLA Timothy Gaston urged Bryant to address the Irish Sea border, citing his previous role as trade minister when steel tariffs were imposed earlier this month. Gaston argued Bryant had shown little sympathy for tackling the border’s effects.

The new secretary also faces immediate pressure on legacy. David Johnstone, the Northern Ireland veterans commissioner, said Bryant must fundamentally review the Troubles legacy act. He stressed that those who followed lawful orders should not face endless prosecutions and inquests. Labour’s election manifesto promised to repeal and replace the controversial legislation, but amended proposals have yet to appear in Parliament.

Hilary Benn, in a statement, called his time in the role a great privilege and pledged support to the prime minister from the backbenches. Irish Foreign Affairs Minister Helen McEntee paid tribute to Benn’s work, particularly the Joint Framework on the Legacy of the Troubles agreed last September, which she said placed victims at its centre.

SDLP leader Claire Hanna said she found Benn thoughtful and willing to listen, and would press the new secretary on institutional reform, sustainable public finances, and political stability.

Bryant, first elected to Parliament in 2001, previously served as a minister for trade and labour. He was an Anglican priest before entering politics and takes on his first cabinet post. Former Northern Ireland secretary Shaun Woodward described him as fair-minded, a fast learner, and well-suited to the role.