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Labour MP Matthew Pennycook has announced he is stepping down as shadow Brexit minister.

In a letter to Jeremy Corbyn he described the job as an "immense privilege" but said: "I now want the opportunity to focus my efforts on campaigning vigorously for that public vote and unequivocally for the UK to stay in the EU when it is secured.

"With our second child due in a matter of weeks, I think I can best do so as a backbencher rather than with the added responsibilities of being a frontbench spokesperson."

He added: "I have nothing but respect for the dedicated and talented members of the team in which I have served for nearly three years".

The 36-year-old has represented Greenwich and Woolwich since May 2015 and has served on the frontbench since October 2016.

His colleague Alex Norris MP tweeted: "I’ve known Matt Pennycook for a long time.

"Exceptionally smart, rock solid integrity and Labour to his core.

"Very sorry to lose him as a Frontbench colleague but I know he’ll make a significant impact for his constituents and Labour from the backbenches."