Solihull West & Shirley MP Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst has been appointed Shadow Minister for Health and Social Care.

The appointment will see Dr Shastri-Hurst take on a national role scrutinising the Government's health policies, with a focus on improving patient outcomes, strengthening the NHS and ensuring public money is spent effectively.

Dr Shastri-Hurst, who has a professional background in both healthcare and law, said he would bring a focus on evidence and outcomes to the position while holding the Burnham Government to account.

He said: "I'm delighted to take on the role of Shadow Minister for Health and Social Care.

"The NHS matters to every family in the country.

"We need to improve outcomes for patients, make sure taxpayers' money is spent properly and be honest about the challenges facing the health service.

"I'll be focused on what works, challenging what doesn't and holding the Burnham Government to account for the decisions it takes."

Despite his new responsibilities at Westminster, Dr Shastri-Hurst said representing residents in Solihull West and Shirley would remain his priority.

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"Alongside my new national responsibilities, my first duty remains to the people of Solihull West & Shirley," he said.

"I'll continue working on the issues that matter to our community - keeping our neighbourhoods safe, supporting a strong local economy and protecting the character of our communities.

"I'm looking forward to getting started."