Conservative Party leader, David Cameron, has invited Hemel Hempstead MP Mike Penning to join the shadow front benches.

In recognition of his hard work as a highly active member of the House of Commons Health Select Committee and his tireless campaigning to save Hemel hospital, David Cameron has promoted Mike to the position of Shadow Minister for Health.

Speaking late last night, Mike said: "I am absolutely delighted. I am extremely pleased to have been offered such a position on a subject which is very close to my heart. It is especially welcome as the subject is one which is of such importance to my constituents.

"Although the needs of the people of Hemel Hempstead will always come first, I am looking forward to this new role as I passionately believe in our health and care services and cannot praise highly enough the dedicated staff who work in them. This new job gives me an excellent opportunity to fight to ensure the Government provides resources and management for the level of healthcare that the British people deserve and have paid for."