Chuka Umunna takes over from Gordon Banks as shadow minister for business, innovation and skills

Labour has appointed a new shadow construction minister two weeks after the MP in charge of the sector resigned from his post.

Chuka Umunna, MP for Streatham and one of the rising stars of the party, has taken over from Gordon Banks, MP for Ochil and South Perthshire, as shadow minister for business, innovation and skills.

Banks, who has held the position since Ed Milliband appointed his shadow ministerial team in September, resigned on 9 May because he said the position was taking up too much of his time at the expense of his constituency.

A former buyer at Barratt and Costain employee, Banks will be replaced by Umunna, who has a background as an employment lawyer.

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