Clarke Among Top Tories Leaving Government

Ken Clarke is retiring from Government and other high-profile Tory MPs have emerged as casualties of David Cameron's reshuffle.

Mr Clarke, 74, is stepping down as minister without portfolio, bringing to an end a front bench career stretching back to 1972 .

Minister of State for Police and Criminal Justice Damian Green has been sacked in a "shock" move and Attorney General Dominic Grieve QC has also left the government, Sky sources say.

Transport Minister Stephen Hammond, Minister for Civil Society Nick Hurd and Welsh Secretary David Jones are also out.

International Development Minister Alan Duncan is standing down at his own request and Universities Minister David Willetts is understood to have stood down.

Sky's Political Editor Adam Boulton said: "It's the biggest upheaval in David Cameron's government since he came to power in 2010.

"He is clearly cutting out a lot of - as people are saying - 'pale, male and stale' ministers.

"A lot of them frankly are thought to be doing quite good jobs in their ministerial positions."

Mr Jones is set to be replaced by Pembrokeshire MP Stephen Crabb, according to Sky sources.

In the reshuffle, Mr Cameron is expected to promote more women into key posts ahead of next year's general election.

Mr Clarke smiled and waved to photographers as he entered No 10, amid speculation about who the winners and losers would be in the PM's plans.

Ben Wallace MP tweeted: "It has been one the greatest privileges to serve as Ken Clarke's PPS (Parliamentary Private Secretary) for the last four years.

"He is the most honest politician I have ever met."

Alongside Mr Clarke, the Conservative leader is also expected to say goodbye to Cabinet veteran and Chief Whip Sir George Young and promote a host of younger talent, including some from the 2010 intake.

Those tipped for promotion include employment minister Esther McVey - who was also seen entering No 10 - education minister Liz Truss and ministerial aide Penny Mordaunt.

Other MPs tipped to be given a boost include Margot James, Amber Rudd and Harriett Baldwin, as Mr Cameron seeks to counter criticism that his government is still dominated by men.

Former defence secretary Liam Fox, a darling of the Tory right, could make a comeback to the political front line nearly three years after quitting in a row over his special adviser.

There is also speculation Eric Pickles could be shifted to chief whip, with his communities and local government brief potentially being handed to a new Cabinet entrant.

Environment Secretary Owen Paterson and Leader of the House Andrew Lansley are also said to be under threat.

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