GAVIN Williamson has been let go from his post as education secretary, it was confirmed this afternoon as Prime Minister Boris Johnson reshuffled his cabinet.

South Staffordshire MP Mr Williamson, whose patch covers Kinver, was the first to go in today's reshuffle which also saw the exit of Robert Buckland as justice secretary.

Stourbridge News: Gavin Williamson pictured in his office at the Department of Education in Westminster. Image - Stefan Rousseau/PA WireGavin Williamson pictured in his office at the Department of Education in Westminster. Image - Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire

Mr Williamson, who had been in post since July 2019, said on Twitter: "It has been a privilege to serve as Education Secretary since 2019.

"Despite the challenges of the global pandemic, I’m particularly proud of the transformational reforms I’ve led in post 16 education: in further education colleges, our Skills agenda, apprenticeships and more.

"This programme will create better life opportunities for pupils and students for many years to come. I look forward to continuing to support the Prime Minster and the government."

Mr Williamson was one of the ministers deemed most at risk of losing his job in the PM's shake-up of his top team after many calls for his resignation or sacking over his handling of exams during the Covid-19 crisis.