NE Cambridgeshire MP Stephen Barclay won a promotion in the recent Government reshuffle announced by the Prime Minister.

Mr Barclay, who was re-elected for a second term with an increased majority of almost 17,000 at the General Election, has been appointed as an assistant whip.

His role will see him tasked with ensuring as many Conservative MPs as possible vote on legislation and matters relating to the department of business and Scotland.

Whips also help arrange the business of parliament and act as tellers at votes.

Mr Barclay said he was looking forward to getting started in the role but added that it would be “a steep learning curve”.

Mr Barclay said: “I am very honoured to have been asked to join the Government as a minister, taking on the role of an assistant whip. I will have specific responsibilities relating to the department of business, and Scotland.

“The whips office play a key role in Parliament, and even more so when the Government has a very small majority. It will be a steep learning curve but fascinating to be at the heart of discussions and government policy in the commons.”