David Willetts has resigned as minister for universities and science as the Prime Minister carries out a major cabinet reshuffle.
The news follows speculation on a number of previous occasions that Mr Willetts, has been the MP for Havant since 1992, was at risk of losing the universities brief.
Greg Clark has been appointed as Minister for Universities and Science in addition to his current role as Minister of State.
Education Secretary Michael Gove is to become the new Chief Whip in the House of Commons, in which he will be responsible for party discipline.
Downing Street said Mr Gove would also have an ‘enhanced role in campaigning and doing broadcast media interviews’.
Mr Gove has been one of the most radical and at times controversial figures in David Cameron’s government for the last four years, driving through far reaching changes to the education system such as free schools and the extension of the academy programme.
He has been replaced by Treasury minister Nicky Morgan, as Mr Cameron promotes more women into top jobs.
