Continuity concerns over new minister

Senior voluntary sector figures have expressed disappointment about
the appointment of a new minister at such a crucial stage of the
government’s plans to involve it more in public services.

Fiona Mactaggart, who has worked at several voluntary organisations
including civil rights organisation Liberty, replaced Lord Filkin
as minister for community policy, and civic renewal in the cabinet
reshuffle a fortnight ago.

Chief executive of the National Association of Councils for
Voluntary Service Kevin Curley said: “We can’t disguise our
disappointment in having to get a new minister up to speed with all
that’s going on.”

Meanwhile, the regeneration sector lost two of its senior ministers
in the reshuffle, with the departure of social exclusion minister
Barbara Roche and regeneration and planning minister Tony McNulty.
Lord Rooker will take over both of their briefs.