Maldon MP John Whittingdale has been removed as media minister in Boris Johnson's reshuffle of cabinet ministers.

In a statement on Twitter this morning, Mr Whittingdale confirmed that he was stepping down and said he was sad to be saying goodbye to staff.

He said: "I am sorry to be stepping down as minister for media and data and saying goodbye to a great team of ministers and officials.

"It has been a privilege to play a part in shaping the future of UK public service broadcasting and in reforming our data laws using our new Brexit freedom."

Mr Whittingdale, who will retain his role as Maldon MP, was appointed as media minister on 14 February 2020.

He previously served as secretary of state for culture, media and sport from 11 May 2015 to 14 July 2016.

He was elected Conservative MP for Maldon in 1992.

Mr Whittingdale's replacement has yet to be named.