A NORTH Yorkshire MP has joined the ministerial ranks for the first time.

Richmond MP Rishi Sunak has been made a Minister at Department of Housing, Communities and Local Government, his first job in government in since becoming an MP in 2015.

Among the casualties in the latest round of Theresa May's overhaul of her team include Scarborough and Whitby MP Robert Goodwill, who has lost his job as minister for children and families.

Boris Johnson has condemned the "abominable" tiger trade in Laos.

The Foreign Secretary told the Commons that the UK was on hand to help the Laos government bring the "appalling trade" to an end.

His comments came after a Mail on Sunday investigation found tiger farms were "flourishing" in the country, despite assurances that they were being shut down.

Tiger parts are used as medicines and for potency treatments, the paper reported.

Meanwhile, Mr Sunak spoke during Foreign Office questions, calling for urgent action on the use of tiger parts for medicines and potency treatments.

Addressing Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, said: "A shocking investigation in the Mail on Sunday highlighted the continuing illegal trade in tigers in Laos.

"Does he agree with me that these findings deserve urgent attention to ensure that this magnificent species can continue to enjoy a safe future?"

Mr Johnson said: "I indeed commend the excellent journalism of that publication in highlighting what is taking place in respect of tiger farming in Laos, which is an abominable, an abominable trade that I think would be condemned by all right- thinking people across the House.

"The UK Government not only calls on the government of Laos to stop this appalling trade but we stand ready to give any support and help that we can to the Laoish."