Andy was born in Liverpool to a telephone engineer and GP receptionist. He studied at a local comprehensive and Cambridge University.

Andy was elected MP for Leigh in 2001. In Government, he was Secretary of State for Health, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport and Chief Secretary to the Treasury.

As Shadow Health Secretary, he challenged the last Government on its reorganisation of the NHS.

Andy lives in Leigh with his wife and children, and is passionate about football and music.