WEST WORCESTERSHIRE MP Harriett Baldwin has been promoted to Government Assistant Whip in a mini-re-shuffle carried out yesterday (Saturday, February 8).

Prime Minister David Cameron offered Mrs Baldwin the post following the resignation of neighbouring MP Mark Harper from his role as Immigration Minister.

Mrs Baldwin said: "I'm honoured to be asked to join the Government as an Assistant Whip.

"Whips are responsible for ensuring the Government is able to get its legislation through and we have a full programme of business ensuring growth, jobs, deficit reduction, welfare reform, higher standards in education and skills and controlled immigration.

"Although I will no longer be able to speak in debates, I will still be able to champion causes for my constituents behind the scenes and in letters to Ministers."