NUT has first new leader in 15 years

The largest teachers' union, the NUT, has a new general secretary after 15 years with Doug McAvoy at the helm.

Steve Sinnott took over leadership of the 230,000-strong union after the ballot result was announced on 29 June. It was a four-cornered contest, with Sinnott gaining 27,287 of the votes on the final round, compared with 22,134 for runner-up Ian Murch.

The turnout was 21.7%, which is average for most unions but low for the NUT.

Sinnott ran on the ticket of unity with the other teaching unions and of improving relations with the Labour government.

NUT voting

First round

John Bangs 10,109

Ian Murch 15,360

Martin Powell-Davies 6,482

Steve Sinnott 20,359

Final round

Ian Murch 22,134

Steve Sinnott 27,287

Turnout 21.7%