FOREST MP Mark Harper has returned to the backbenches following the Cabinet reshuffle by new Prime Minister Theresa May.

Mr Harper has been replaced as chief whip by Gavin Williamson, the MP for South Staffordshire and an aide to former Prime Minister David Cameron.

Although there has been no official word from Downing Street about Mr Harper, he has stated, on his Twitter feed, that he is leaving the government.

He wrote: "I have decided to leave the Government & return to the backbenches. I’ll continue to loyally support HMG (Her Majesty’s Government" & @theresa_may as our new PM."

Mr Harper had previously worked with Theresa May at the Home Office as Immigration Minister