In the past few minutes, Deputy Chief Whip John Randall and Cabinet Office Minister Chloe Smith have quit the government ahead of an expected reshuffle this week. James outlined some of the movers and shakers in his column today, and we will bring you full details of the departures and moves as they come, although the word from Downing Street is that there will be no more departures tonight. Smith had the distinction of being able to announce her own departure on Twitter, saying she decided last month:-
Stepped down as Minister,proud of record.Told PM of my decision in Sept:my constituency work has always mattered most http://t.co/kfsf8ZE2Xk
— Chloe Smith (@ChloeSmithMP) October 6, 2013
Smith, 31, had been responsible for the controversial lobbying bill, along with leader of the House Andrew Lansley, but is perhaps best known for her awkward encounter with Jeremy Paxman on Newsnight, which you can relive below.
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