by Tim Collins and James Scott

Ashford MP Damian Green has been appointed as the policing minister, following David Cameron’s cabinet reshuffle.

Since the general election in 2010, Mr Green has been the Minister of State for Immigration, alongside his duties in the House of Commons and his Ashford constituency.

Mr Green will now replace Nick Herbert, who announced his resignation on Tuesday, as the government’s joint Minister for the Home Office and Ministry of Justice.

Part of Mr Green’s new brief will be overseeing the introduction of police and crime commissioners in November.

Elections for the new commissioners, who will replace the existing police authorities, will be taking place in 41 areas across the country on November 15.

Ashford borough councillor Harriet Yeo is among the contenders to become the newly elected police chief for Kent.

About his new role, Mr Green said: “I’m delighted to be given such a big job. Policing is important to everyone in this country.

“This, particularly with the police and crime commissioners election coming up in November, is a crucial time and people will be able to have more say on how the streets of Ashford are policed.

“This is a very important time to make sure that people know there will be big changes in the way that the police are run.”

He added: “Having done the immigration minister role for two and a half years, and for five years in opposition, that’s been another hugely important role.

“I’m just pleased that the immigration figures are coming down. I feel it’s a good time to move on.”