SAJID Javid has said he was “honoured” to be asked to be Health Secretary following the resignation of Matt Hancock amid intense pressure for breaching social-distancing rules by kissing an aide.

Former chancellor and home secretary Mr Javid was appointed to the prominent role just 90 minutes after Downing Street announced Mr Hancock had resigned on Saturday evening.

Mr Javid tweeted: “Honoured to have been asked to serve as Secretary of State for Health and Social Care at this critical time.

“I look forward to contributing to our fight against the pandemic, and serving my country from the Cabinet once again.”

Worcestershire Conservatives has also welcomed the appointment of Sajid Javid as Secretary of State for Health and Social Care.

Mr Javid's new appointment has been met with praise from fellow MPs and local councillors across Worcestershire.

Cllr Simon Geraghty as Leader of Worcestershire County Council said: “Congratulations to Sajid on his appointment.

"I am proud and pleased to see another Worcestershire MP appointed to government, helping to amplify our voice as a county in government.

"I look forward to working with Sajid to further our local health and social care ambitions and tackling the challenges across Worcestershire.”

Rachel Maclean MP for Redditch said: "Congratulations to my friend, fellow Worcestershire MP and constituency neighbour Sajid Javid on his appointment as Health Secretary.

"It was my privilege to serve as Saj’s PPS when he was Chancellor and I’ve seen at first hand how compassionate, values driven and focussed he is."

Robin Walker, MP for Worcester tweeted: "Delighted to see the excellent @sajidjavid a friend, colleague & Worcestershire neighbour return to the cabinet - sorry it is in such sad circumstances - but good to know such a vital job is in good hands."