Montgomeryshire’s new MP has been officially sworn in after taking a leave of absence in his first week following a personal loss.

Labour MP for Montgomeryshire and Glyndŵr, Steve Witherden, was officially sworn in as a Member of Parliament on Tuesday morning, July 16. 

Mr Witherden announced on social media that he was heading back to Westminster on Sunday, July 14, after taking some time away after his mother died during his first week on the job.

He said he was “heading back to Westminster to get to work for the people of Montgomeryshire and Glyndŵr” after being elected to the parliamentary seat on July 4.

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On July 9, Mr Witherden had what he described as “a fantastic first day in Westminster”, adding: “I’m still learning my way around but I’m eager to get to work for the people of Montgomeryshire and Glyndŵr. Special thanks to my cousin for letting me bunk at her place for my first week.”

His first week as MP was sadly interrupted by a personal loss, as he revealed on July 10 that his mother had died.

He said: “Apologies for any delays in responding to communications. I am dealing with a very sudden close family bereavement. 

“Our mum, Sally, passed away last night. I would like to give my personal thanks to the staff of Wrexham Maelor hospital, especially Dr N McAndrew and his team for their respectful and sensitive treatment and A&E Nurse Kathryn whose compassion, professionalism and kindness helped make a difficult day that much more bearable.

“I will return to my duty as MP for Montgomeryshire & Glyndŵr as soon as possible but for now please may I beg some patience as I deal with my grief and support my family. Thank you for all the kind messages we have already received.”

Members of the House of Commons and the House of Lords take an oath of allegiance to the Crown following a General Election, with hundreds being sworn in days after the 2024 election. 

During the first week of parliament since the General Election, a record 335 new MPs were sworn into the House of Commons, the largest number in modern history.

As well as the 335 new MPs, Mr Witherden was among the 15 others who returned after most had already taken their Parliamentary oath after a period of absence, bringing the total number of newly elected representatives to 350.