Mark Harper appointed new transport secretary

Mark Harper has been announced as the new Secretary of State for Transport, following new prime minister Rishi Sunak's cabinet appointments.

He replaces Anne-Marie Trevelyan who was named transport secretary by former prime minister Liz Truss.

Mark Harper was previously Chief Whip (Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasury) from May 2015 until 14 July 2016, Minister for Disabled People from July 2014 until May 2015, Minister for Immigration from September 2012 until February 2014, and Minister for Political and Constitutional Reform from May 2010 until September 2012.

He was elected Conservative MP for the Forest of Dean in May 2005.

Mark Harper tweeted: "Delighted to be appointed Secretary of State for Transport by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

"Transport affects us all, and I can’t wait to tackle the challenges we face so we can deliver for communities across our United Kingdom."