Coventry MP Bob Ainsworth has been made a minister in the wake of Peter Mandelson’s departure from the government.

He has been promoted from the position of Government Whip to Parliamentary Under-Secretary of Sate at the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions.

The former Jaguar worker, who was deputy leader of Coventry City Council from 1988-91 before winning Coventry North East, will have responsibilities for housing, aviation, coastal policy, countryside and wildlife, water, waste, and science and technology policy.

His move comes following a reshuffle prompted by the departure of Peter Mandelson from the government.

Ironically, it was Mandelson’s call to Mr Ainsworth’s neighbouring MP Mike O’Brien over a passport application that prompted his downfall.

Mr O’Brien was the immigration minister at the time the controversial Hinduja brothers were trying to get citizenship.