Out British MP Keir Mather Makes History as Youngest Government Minister in Nearly Two Centuries

The United Kingdom witnessed a historic moment on 8 September 2025, when 27-year-old Keir Mather, Labor MP for Selby, was appointed parliamentary under-secretary of state at the Department for Transport. Not since the 1834 appointment of William Gladstone has someone so young been appointed to a position of government minister. The rise of the openly gay Mather reflects not only generational change but also the increasing visibility and acceptance of queer people in British public life .

Mather’s political journey began with his victory in the 2023 by-election for the North Yorkshire constituency of Selby and Ainsty (now Selby), where he overturned a significant Conservative majority. In the 2024 general election, he retained the seat decisively, securing 46.3% of the vote against the Conservatives’ 25.6% .

Before entering Parliament, Mather built experience as a public affairs adviser and researcher. He worked at the Confederation of British Industry and as a parliamentary researcher for Labour MP Wes Streeting, now the health secretary . Mather’s own academic background includes a degree from Oxford University, where he was known for his debating skills and advocacy on social issues .

Mather’s appointment is especially significant for the queer community, both for his openness about his identity and his record of advocacy. He has spoken out in support of transgender people and challenged exclusionary and transphobic rhetoric in public discourse .

In a 2023 interview with The Times, Mather emphasized the importance of respect for people of all gender identities, stating, “There is a very small minority of people who feel they’ve been born into the wrong gender and they deserve respect and care” . During his time at Oxford, he publicly criticized trans-exclusionary views, including those of prominent figures such as Germaine Greer. When questioned about these comments after entering Parliament, Mather stood by his earlier statements, affirming his commitment to trans inclusion and the dignity of all queer people .

News of Mather’s appointment was met with widespread approval among queer advocates and allies in politics. Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who previously worked with Mather, wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “Youngest minister since Gladstone with the potential to go as far, which I’m sure will attract some commentary. That commentary should include sharp mind, excellent judgment, empathetic leader and one of the nicest people in politics” .

Queer organizations and activists have highlighted Mather’s appointment as a breakthrough for representation, noting that while the UK has seen openly queer ministers before, none have been as young or as openly vocal on trans rights in the early stages of their careers .

The comparison to William Gladstone is more than symbolic. Gladstone, who became a minister at age 25 in 1834, later served as prime minister in four non-consecutive terms. Mather’s appointment nearly two centuries later signals a significant generational and societal shift, not only in age but in the diversity of identities represented in government .

The UK Parliament has, over recent decades, become one of the world’s most queer-inclusive legislatures, with increasing numbers of openly LGBTQ+ MPs and ministers. However, Mather’s combination of youth, openness, and advocacy represents a new milestone, signaling to young queer people that there are few limits on what they can achieve in public life .

Since entering Parliament, Mather has advocated for inclusive policies and has not shied away from difficult debates. On gender identity, he has called for respect and care for transgender people, and he has publicly disagreed with exclusionary and transphobic rhetoric .

Mather has also expressed pragmatic support for Labour’s broader economic and social agenda, including maintaining certain welfare policies in the face of fiscal constraints, and has stated his intention to use his platform to advance equality and inclusion .

As parliamentary under-secretary of state at the Department for Transport, Mather is now positioned to influence transport policy, including accessibility and safety for marginalized groups, and to serve as a role model for inclusive leadership within government .

For many queer people, especially young people and those living in rural or traditionally conservative areas, Mather’s rise is a powerful symbol of progress. His presence in government demonstrates the importance of visibility and the potential for change, even within the highest echelons of power.

Queer networks and advocacy groups have welcomed the appointment, describing it as a catalyst for further progress on equality issues. The moment is seen as part of a broader trend toward greater diversity and inclusion across British society, and particularly within its political institutions .