Three of our region's MPs have taken up junior ministerial jobs following Gordon Brown's reshuffle.

 Jonathan Shaw, Chatham and Aylesford, moves from his position at DEFRA to a new role at the Department of Work and Pensions as Minister for Disabled People. He will continue in his role as Minister for the South East.

 Paul Clark, Gillingham and Rainham, has been appointed as Parliamentary Under Secretary for Transport in the Department for Transport.

Paul said: “I have always said it is great honour to be elected as a Member of Parliament, doubly so to represent my home town. But now being asked to be a Minister in such an important aspect of all our lives – whether it is as a rail commuter, driving on our road network, navigating our coasts and waterways, utilising cycle paths, bus routes or footpaths – I am extremely privileged to have this opportunity."

 Sarah McCarthy-Fry, Portsmouth North, has joined the Ministerial Team at the Department for Children, Schools and Families as Parliamentary Under Secretary for Schools and Learners.