FE welcomes Nick Boles as new Skills Minister

Nick Boles, who was Minister for Planning and Development, has been promoted to Minister of State for Skills, Enterprise and Equalities in today’s cabinet reshuffle.

He takes the skills brief from Matthew Hancock, who will now attend Cabinet meetings in a cross-department role at the Department for Business and Department for Energy.

The 157 Group association of colleges welcomed the appointment, which was made amidst a raft of changes across the government that also saw Education Secretary Michael Gove become Chief Whip.

“We look forward to working closely with Nick Boles and to introducing him to the excellent work done by further education colleges as he takes up his new role,” said 157 Group executive director Lynne Sedgmore.

“Having an open and productive relationship with the government helps ensure that policymaking in further education is informed by those with the experience and expertise to make a positive difference. At a time of great change in our country and in our sector, it is vital that colleges are supported to provide young people and adults with the skills that employers want and the economy needs.”

Tom Stannard, deputy chief executive of the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE), said: “Matt Hancock will be a tough act to follow and we would like to congratulate him on his promotion. We are pleased that he’s staying within BIS.”

The reshuffle also sees Greg Clark as the new Minister for Universities, Science and Cities, and Nicky Morgan as Secretary of State for Education.

Esther McVey will continue as Minister for Employment and Disabilities, but will now also attend Cabinet meetings.

Natalie Thornhill