WIREDGOV

We have a strong team in place at DWP to continue to deliver our important reforms which are bringing back fairness to the welfare system. I very much look forward to working with Esther and Mike in their respective new roles.

I’d also like to thank Mark Hoban for all his work as Minister for Employment. Mark was a valued and successful member of my team who worked hard to strengthen the Work Programme which is now helping thousands of the hardest to help people find lasting work.

My priority has been, and will continue to be, making sure people have the right help and support to get into and stay in work.

We have already improved the help available through schemes like the Work Programme, and we are bringing in more intensive support for the long-term unemployed. I also want to make sure young people who work hard receive all the support they need.

It’s great to be back working with Iain Duncan Smith at this crucial time delivering important welfare reforms. Disabled people aspire to the same opportunities as everyone else, and I want to continue Esther’s work to support disabled people to live fulfilling lives.

Making this a senior ministerial post shows the government’s commitment to disabled people and ensuring everyone can get on in life.