As we move into the new Parliament there will be excitement and celebrations among some of the politicians and commiserations and an overwhelming sense of loss among others. The winners will be looking forward to the challenges ahead and for many, embracing new roles and responsibilities. But everyone who has ever stood for elected office knows the outcome is almost never certain, however that doesn't make it any easier when the public decide it is not you that they choose to represent them this time.

For me personally, it is a huge honour and a great privilege to have been asked to serve as a government minister in the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). After 27 years in local government, this is literally my dream job. There is an enormous agenda including tackling the housing crisis, empowering communities and mayors, planning reform, working with local authorities on fair funding and launching the programme for New Towns. I am very proud to be part of such a strong MHCLG team not only in the department, but in local government across the country.