From 1989 to 1997 Jon worked for the Labour Party as Assistant to the General Secretary, Larry Whitty and then as Deputy Political Secretary to the Prime Minister with responsibility for government/trade union liaison.

During this time Jon helped deliver party reforms, such as ‘One Member One Vote’ and the establishment of the National Policy Forum. He was involved in the introduction of pioneering legislation such as the National Minimum Wage and the Employment Relations Act.

Jon is a committed trade unionist and is a long time trade union member and activist. He supports stronger protections for people at work, including stronger employment protection, support for key industries and the end of the UK’s opt out from the Working Time Directive.

Since becoming an MP in 2001 he has developed a reputation as a first rate campaigner and has helped lead the fight against the BNP.

He is a devoted constituency MP and in Parliament he voted against the introduction of tuition fees, Trident and supported the Private Member’s Bill to provide ‘equal treatment’ for temporary and agency workers.

Jon’s father served in Britain’s Navy for 27 years and his mother worked as a teacher. He was raised with his two brothers and two sisters in Portsmouth. He studied Philosophy at Warwick where he gained an MA and a Phd.

Jon is married with a son.

He enjoys swimming, golf and fishing. He supports Portsmouth FC.

Read my statement on why trade union members should vote for me

Read my biography

Read my responses to the UnionsTogether Election Survey

View my UnionsTogether TV Interview