New minister for GOS likely after re-shuffles

David Lammy, the Tottenham MP who has been tipped to become BritainÕs first black Prime Minister, is likely to take over responsibility for General Ophthalmic Services after the Government re-shuffle. Although ministerial responsibilities are not expected to be known for several days, 29 year-old Mr Lammy has taken over the role of parliamentary undersecretary of state at the DoH from Hazel Blears. Ms Blears, who held the responsibility of GOS in her portfolio from last June, has moved within the department to become parliamentary undersecretary of state for Public Health.Alan Milburn, health secretary said: ÔIÕm particularly pleased to welcome David to the department to follow on the excellent work done by Hazel Blears, who will now take on an enhanced position with responsibility for public health.ÕLike Ms Blears, Mr Lammy is acknowledged to be a Blairite. He studied law at the School of Oriental and African Studies and was admitted to the Bar of England and Wales in 1995. After studying at Havard Law School, he returned to the UK and following his election to the Greater London Assembly he was elected MP for Tottenham in June 2000.Following his re-election last year, he was appointed Parliamentary Private Secretary to Estelle Morris, Secretary of State for Education.Mr Lammy said: ÔI am very pleased and excited to have the opportunity to serve in the DoH and to contribute to delivering the GovernmentÕs ambitious programme of investment and reform in the NHS.ÔRepresenting a constituency like Tottenham I know how vital the NHS is to the community. As IÕve visited local hospitals and spoken to NHS staff I know the challenges they face each day and how vital it is that the health service continues to improve.Õ