A Suffolk MP spoke of his delight after becoming a junior minister.
Central Suffolk and North Ipswich MP Dr Dan Poulter will take on a health brief as a result of a cabinet reshuffle by Prime Minister David Cameron.
The Conservative, who was elected in 2010, has been rewarded for strong displays in his first two years as MP and because of his medical experience before being elected.
Dr Poulter said: 'I am delighted to be able to use my frontline experience. It is the department I was always very keen to work in because of my background as a doctor. The PM thought that my experience meant I had a lot to contribute to government and it is an honour and privilege to accept the role.'
He added that he hoped the success of the Olympics and Paralympic Games would lead to more people taking on a healthier lifestyle.
'There is a real interest in sport in the UK now because of the fabulous summer we have enjoyed with what has been happening in London. We will look to build on that and hopeful we can see a real impact being made on obesity, smoking and alcohol consumption.
'I am, of course, delighted with my new role but I will make sure my constituents continue to be at the forefront of my mind.'
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