WINCHESTER'S MP has been named as an aide to one of the country's most important ministers.

Conservative Steve Brine has been appointed parliamentary private secretary (PPS) to the Health Secretary, Jeremy Hunt.

It will be seen as a promotion for Mr Brine, previously PPS to police minister Mike Penning.

Mr Brine will act as eyes and ears in the new Commons for Mr Hunt, one of the Government's most prominent figures.

He has been Winchester's MP since 2010, when he took the seat vacated by Liberal Democrat Mark Oaten, and won a second victory with an increased majority of 16,914 votes last month.

Announcing the change on Twitter, Mr Brine said: "pleased to say I will be moving to Dept of Health as PPS to the Secretary of State, Jeremy Hunt".