SOUTHAMPTON Itchen MP John Denham has pledged to be a “strong voice” for firms and workers in the south after being appointed shadow business Secretary in new Labour leader Ed Miliband’s frontbench team.

Mr Denham, who faces his first Commons clash with his opposite number, Liberal Democrat Business Secretary Vince Cable, on Thursday, was given the post after being voted into the shadow Cabinet by fellow Labour MPs.

His new role – in addition to covering business and the economy – also includes higher education and skills – subjects over which he was in charge as Secretary of State for the shortlived Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills, between 2007 and 2009.

After that he was promoted to Communities Secretary, a post he retained until Labour was kicked out of power at May’s General Election.

Mr Denham, in his new role, will be expected to lead Labour’s response to the Browne review into student finance, out next week, which is likely to call for an increase in tuition fees. He will also be responsible for challenging the Government over its plans for the post office network and Royal Mail.

The Hampshire MP, who is the only shadow Cabinet member from a southern constituency, said yesterday: “Getting growth into the economy is key to Britain’s future – creating jobs, securing opportunities for young people and making Britain more prosperous.’’