PM PUTS FINAL TOUCHES TO RESHUFFLE
David Cameron is putting the final touches to a reshuffle that is expected to see more women promoted into key positions.
Making what is likely to be the last significant tweaks to his team before the general election, the Prime Minister is set to say goodbye to Cabinet veterans including Ken Clarke and Sir George Young.
Those tipped for advancement include employment minister Esther McVey, education minister Liz Truss and ministerial aide Penny Mordaunt.
Margot James, Amber Rudd and Harriett Baldwin could also be moving up, as the Tory leader seeks to counter criticism that his government is still dominated by men.
Former defence secretary Liam Fox, a darling of the Tory right, could make a comeback to the political front line nearly three years after quitting in a row over his special adviser.
There is growing speculation that Eric Pickles could be shifted to Chief Whip, with his Communities and Local Government brief potentially being handed to a new Cabinet entrant.
David Willetts, who attends Cabinet as universities minister, is said to be under threat, as are Environment Secretary Owen Paterson and Leader of the House Andrew Lansley.
The prime minister is expected to make the opening moves in his shake-up this evening, appointing a Chief Whip first before finalising the line-up tomorrow.
Mr Cameron also needs to identify a new commissioner to represent the UK in Brussels.
He is thought to be reluctant to select an MP for the post and trigger a by-election that would suck up valuable resources. Former Tory leader Lord Howard is among those being touted as a candidate.
Liberal Democrat sources have indicated that Nick Clegg is not planning to change his government team until after the Scottish Independence referendum in September.
