A former primary school teacher, Mike began his political career as a Councillor on Manchester City Council in 1991, overseeing the investment strategy that led to Central Library’s transformation. He was the national Chair of Movement for Change 2010-13 and Acting Chief Executive of the organisation from July 2013 –February 2014. In February 2014, Mike was elected as a Member of Parliament for his home constituency, Wythenshawe and Sale East. He was Shadow Minister for International Development from September 2015 to October 2016, when he was appointed Shadow Minister for Schools. In April 2020 Mike became Shadow Minister for Aviation, Maritime, & Security.