±±¾©Èü³µpk10

The move follows Jowell’s reappointment as secretary of state for culture, media and sport following the cabinet reshuffle after last week’s general election.

James Purnell has been appointed as the minister for media and tourism, replacing Lord McIntosh, who acted on behalf of the government in the House of Lords during the turbulent passage of the Communications Act through parliament in 2003.

Purnell’s remit covers broadcasting, tourism, licensing and the creative industries including film and music.

Previously Purnell worked as head of corporate planning at the BBC and was a special adviser to the Prime Minister on culture, media, sport and the knowledge economy.

He also had a stint as a policy wonk for the Institute for Public Policy Research, Labour’s once-highly favoured thinktank.

Jowell retained her position as secretary of state for culture, media and sport, which has been seen as a ringing endorsement of her performance in the role so far, seeing through the Communications Act and parliamentary end of the review of the BBC’s Royal Charter.

She will also be responsible for what many claim will be the most difficult job in the department over the next five years – ensuring the UK is ready both technical and commercially for the digital switchover programme.

Meanwhile in the Tory camp, former-chairwoman of the Conservative Party Theresa May has replaced John Whittingdale as shadow minister for culture, media and sport.

By Amanda Lennon