James Purnell named culture secretary in Gordon Brown reshuffle

James Purnell, the man handed the onerous task of introducing of the controversial Licensing Act in 2005, has been rewarded with the role of culture secretary in Gordon Brown's new cabinet.

The appointment by the UK's new prime minister grants Purnell responsibility for promoting the tourism industry in the UK.

Purnell, who holds the safe Labour seat of Stalybridge and Hythe in greater Manchester, has worked for the DCMS before and was minister for media and tourism between 2003 and 2005.

He takes over from Tessa Jowell who becomes Olympics minister.

Tourism minister Shaun Woodward has been appointed Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.

His successor is expected to be announced tomorrow.

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By Christopher Walton

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