Children's minister Claire Coutinho promoted to energy secretary

Coutinho, who has held the position at the Department for Education for less than a year, replaces Grant Shapps who has is now defence secretary, succeeding Ben Wallace.

Reports suggests that the MP for Wantage, David Johnstone is taking over as children’s minister, making him the fifth person to hold the role in just under two years.

The Early Years Alliance congratulated Coutinho on her promotion, but said the ‘never-ending revolving door of ministers is beyond frustrating for the sector.’

Chief executive Neil Leitch explained, ‘The fact that Government expects providers to put up with a never-ending revolving door of ministers is bad enough, but to do so as the sector prepares to roll out its biggest early years expansion in recent history is bordering on negligent. 

‘What we need more than ever over the coming months is consistent policy, driven by ministers who have a clear understanding of the early years sector and the challenges it faces. This reshuffle is likely to deliver the exact opposite.’

Similarly, the National Day Nurseries Association said with the departure of Coutinho, the sector is back to 'square one'.

Chief executive Purnima Tanuku said, 'This is really distressing for the early years sector to have their minister moved at such a crucial time just seven months from the expansion of funded childcare for two-year-olds.

'The new minister, reportedly David Johnston, will be the eighth we have had within five years. Childcare and early education must be a priority and must be given some stability and focus.

'Since her appointment as education minister, Claire Coutinho has engaged well with the sector and its challenges, speaking at our conference and visiting many nurseries. We wish her well in her new role.'