HALESOWEN and Rowley Regis MP has been promoted by Boris Johnson to a higher position in the Government Whip’s Office

James was promoted from his position as an assistant whip to a Government whip, officially taking the title of Lord Commissioner of the Treasury, during a ministerial reshuffle.

He said: “I am proud to continue serving in the Government and play a part in ensuring it gets its business through the House of Commons.

“We have an excellent programme to deliver, including extra investment in education and our NHS, and 20,000 extra police officers to keep our streets safe.”

The Whips Office is responsible for arranging the business of Parliament (working with the Leader of the House of Commons) and ensuring that Government can pass its legislation.

‘Lord Commissioner of the Treasury’ is a role that dates back to the 17th Century when the powers of the Lord High Treasurer were placed into commission, and by tradition several members of the Whip’s office take this title.