Tory MP Sajid Javid replaces Maria Miller and becomes new Equalities Secretary
Conservative MP Sajid Javid has replaced Maria Miller as the most senior minister responsible for equalities in the UK Government.
Prime Minister David Cameron made the announcement on Twitter.
Mr Javid, MP for Bromsgrove in Worcestershire, was elected to Parliament in May 2010. He voted in favour of the same-sex marriage act for England and Wales.
He previously said of the reform: “I understand that this (gay marriage) is a contentious issue, with passionate arguments on both sides. I agree with the Prime Minister that if a couple love each other and want to commit to a life together, then they should have the option of a civil marriage. What has been vitally important to me throughout this debate, however, is that there is no question of churches, or any other religious institution, being forced to host same-sex marriage or indeed civil partnerships. Freedom of religious belief is as important to me as equality for all.”
Sajid Javid MP is the new Secretary of State for Culture, Media, Sport and Equalities.
— David Cameron (@David_Cameron) April 9, 2014
The PM also announced that Conservative MP Nicky Morgan would be the new Minister for Women – however Mr Javid, now has sole responsibility for equalities.
Speaking previously about his faith, the MP said: “My own family’s heritage is Muslim. Myself and my four brothers were brought up to believe in God, but I do not practise any religion. My wife is a practising Christian and the only religion practised in my house is Christianity. I think we should recognise that Christianity is the religion of our country.”
Conservative MP Helen Grant remains as a junior Equalities Minister along with Liberal Democrat MP Jo Swinson – who is currently being covered on maternity leave by Lib Dem MP Jenny Willott.
