Show latest news, more from October 2008.
Follett replaces Hodge as culture minister
Barbara Follett has been appointed as the new Minister for Culture, the Creative Industries and Tourism, replacing Margaret Hodge, who leaves government.
Follett, who has served as Labour MP for Stevenage since 1997 and is married to novelist Ken Follett, comes from the post of work and pensions minister. She has also previously served as parliamentary private secretary to Ruth Kelly, as Minister for Women, from 2006 to 2007.
Hodge has reportedly stepped down from government on compassionate leave to look after her ill husband. It is understood that she is expected to return to a ministerial role next year. Hodge was appointed to the post of minister for culture in June 2007.
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