Smith, who is the MP for Pontypridd, was shadow Welsh Secretary in Ed Miliband’s shadow cabinet, He is 45 years of age, and spent 10 years as a radio producer before moving into politics in 2002. He won his first seat in the House of Commons in 2006.
Smith tweeted: “A great honour to have been asked to speak for our party on Work & Pensions. Thanks to all who have offered congrats. I won’t let you down.”

