DURING yet another tumultuous week on the national political stage, Okehampton’s MP has been promoted to a key role in the Cabinet.

Mel Stride, the MP for Central Devon, was appointed as the new leader of the House of Commons last Thursday after the MP for South Northamptonshire, Andrea Leadsom, resigned from the role last Wednesday over Prime Minister Theresa May’s handling of Brexit.

To take up his new position, Mr Stride left his former position of financial secretary to the Treasury and as paymaster general, which has been filled by former transport minister Jesse Norman MP.

Mr Stride said: ‘Although I am sad to leave the Treasury this appointment is a huge honour and I look forward to working with all parties to take important legislation through the House.’

For the full story pick up today’s edition of the Okehampton Times.