Matt Hancock appointed DCMS secretary

Matt Hancock, the former digital minister for the Department for Culture, Media and Sport has been appointed the DCMS Secretary of State.

The appointment was made as part of a wider cabinet reshuffle, which has seen former culture secretary Karen Bradley replace Northern Ireland secretary James Brokenshire, who resigned for health reasons.

Thrilled to become DCMS Secretary. Such an exciting agenda, so much to do, and great people. Can’t wait to get stuck in #DigitalCultureMediaSport https://t.co/HlspHnJjHG
— Matt Hancock (@MattHancock) January 8, 2018

Among his responsibilities in the role, Hancock will oversee many government policies related to charities and civil society, as well as creative industries, sport and tourism.

In his role as digital minister, Hancock successfully helped the production of the new Data Protection Bill and made a number of important decisions about the future of tech innovation.

Very humbled by all the kind messages tonight. A massive thank you to you all for your warm words of support https://t.co/aP6tfGrNS8
— Matt Hancock (@MattHancock) January 8, 2018

Commenting on his appointment, ACEVO CEO Vicky Browning said: “I would like to thank Karen Bradley for her engagement with ACEVO during her time as Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. We wish her well in her new role as Northern Ireland Secretary.

“I look forward to working with Matt Hancock in his new role and hope to meet with him in the coming months. His previous experience working with the Office for Civil Society while at the Cabinet Office should provide him with a ready insight into the many challenges facing the sector.

“His commitment to digital improvement aligns with the current drive in the charity sector to maximise the opportunities offered by technology. I hope there will be opportunities for DCMS and the charity sector to work together to further work on digital transformation.

“Equally we will not shy away from discussions on topics where we have previously disagreed. Matt Hancock has previously spoken in support of the Lobbying Act, a piece of legislation on which ACEVO is currently seeking reform. We will continue to advocate for the right of charities to campaign and the recognition that it is a fundamental part of charitable activity.”