BROMLEY and Chislehurst MP Bob Neill has confirmed the loss of his Department for Communities and Local Government role as parliamentary under-secretary of state.

He lost his position as part of the reshuffle.

Mr Neill told News Shopper at 11am this morning his support for his constituents remains paramount.

He said:"It was been a great privilege to have served in the Government and I am very proud of what my Department has achieved over these past two years.

"I had a very positive and friendly conversation with the Prime Minister yesterday and I made it clear that he will have my full support as an active backbencher.

"There is critical work to do in rebuilding our economy and creating the homes and jobs our country needs.

"And above all, I shall be devoting all my energies to standing up for the interests of the people of Bromley and Chislehurst.”

Website conservativehome.blogs.com mentioned Mr Neill's departure in its reshuffle blog at 6pm yesterday.

Tributes have started pouring in from high-profile fans including MP John Redwood who said on his website today: "So too it is sad to see the end of Bob Neill, a local government Minister with a love of localism and a good knowledge of the Council world."

Conservative councillor for the Bromley ward Will Hammer tweeted: "Sad to see local MP Bob Neill leave Gvt. He was a big advocate on behalf of Bromley' residents in central Govt."

His role in DCLG included responsibilities for the fire service, Thames Gateway, the Olympics, local government and planning.

He was appointed to the position in 2010.