David Evennett, the Conservative MP, has officially taken over from Tracey Crouch as the sports minister goes on maternity leave.

Evennett, who has been MP for Bexleyheath and Crayford since 2005, has had his temporary appointment approved by the Queen. He will take over all of Crouch’s duties and responsibilities during her time away from parliament.

Although there has been no date put on Crouch’s return, Sports Management understands that the Chatham and Aylesford MP is expected to be back to the House of Commons, and her ministerial brief, in July.

Evennett will remain a government whip (junior Lord of the Treasury) while he fulfils Crouch’s role.

Crouch was appointed as sports minister in May following the Conservative’s 2015 general election victory. She delivered the government’s strategy for sport – Sporting Future in December.