Rosie Winterton is the new health minister responsible for optical services.
Ms Winterton, 44, is Labour MP for Doncaster Central, and has been given the role after the government reshuffle saw John Reid replace Alan Milburn as health secretary (News, June 13). She replaces David Lammy as minister in charge of General Ophthalmic Services.
Following the Government's commitment to include optometrists in a major role in its National Service Framework for diabetes earlier this year, Ms Winterton's responsibilities will include diabetes services as well as dentistry and pharmacy issues.
In her political career Ms Winterton has been a key supporter of John Prescott, the deputy prime minister, and helped to run his 1994 bid for leadership of the Labour party.