Damian Green takes back seat to concentrate on Brexit negotiations.

Caroline Nokes has been given ministerial responsibility for the Government Digital Service, with Cabinet Office minister Damian Green taking an oversight role.

With Green firmly focused on Brexit negotiations, Nokes is expected to take a leading role in driving forward the digital agenda within Whitehall.

Nokes was appointed as a junior minister in the department two weeks ago and has served as Conservative MP for Romsey and Southampton North since May 2010.

Nokes said: “The UK Government is one of the most digitally advanced in the world, and I am excited to be playing a part in driving forward development in this area. 

“It is vital that government continues to encourage more people to go online, so they can access the guidance and services they need – as well as reducing the cost of delivering public services. The Government Digital Service plays a leading role in making that happen.”

Kevin Cunnington, director of GDS, welcomed the appointment, saying: “Everyone at GDS is looking forward to working with the minister as we deliver on the ambitious agenda that was outlined in the Government Transformation Strategy.

“This will see us harness digital technology to build world-class platforms and services that will transform the relationship between citizen and state.”

Nokes is a former local councillor, serving on Test Valley Borough Council between 1999 and 2011.

She also worked as chief executive of the National Pony Society from 2008 until she became an MP.

In July 2016, Nokes was appointed a junior minister as a junior minister in the Department for Work and Pensions.