It appears Skipton MP Julian Smith has been given a key promotion in the Government of new Prime Minister Theresa May.

He tweeted today: Delighted to be appointed Vice Chamberlain & Government Whip working for Government Chief Whip @GWilliamsonMP &. @AnneMiltonMP #reshuffle Julian was elected in 2010 following a successful career as an entrepreneur.

In May 2015, Julian was re-elected as the Member of Parliament for Skipton and Ripon, nearly doubling his majority and receiving the support of over half of those who voted. Julian also joined the Government as a Minister in the Whips’ Office. A key aspect of this role has been ensuring the Government follows through with its manifesto commitments.

As he states on his website, by convention, Whips do not speak in the House of Commons. However, he will continue to fight for Skipton and Ripon and speak up for our community in his meetings with Ministers and behind the scenes.

See this week's Craven Herald for a full report.