Tristram Hunt – Labour MP for Stoke-on-Trent Central – is to step down from his position in order to become the new director of London’s Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A).

The former shadow education secretary for the Labour Party, was re-elected to his position in May 2015, having won the seat in 2010. In September last year, Hunt left Jeremy Corbyn’s shadow cabinet because of his "substantial political differences".

Hunt will replace former V&A director Martin Roth, who resigned from his position as director of the V&A in September – a decision fuelled in-part by his disillusionment at the recent Brexit vote.

“I am delighted and honoured to have been appointed Director of the V&A,” said Hunt. “I have loved the V&A since I was a boy, and today it is a global leader in its unrivalled collections, special exhibitions, academic research and visitor experience.

“The combination of the power of the collections and expertise of an inspirational team is what makes the V&A the world’s greatest museum of art, design and performance. I am honoured to take on this exciting opportunity.”

In his new role, Hunt will oversee a number of big events planned for the V&A in 2017, including The Pink Floyd Exhibition: Their Mortal Remains, which runs between May and October.

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