DHSC minister on 'poisoned chalice'

Ashford says he'll put his heart and soul into it

The Island's new health minister says he would have been a 'complete hypocrite' to turn down the job.

David Ashford was appointed the head of the DHSC yesterday, replacing Kate Beecroft after she was forced to resign last week.

In a statement, the North Douglas MHK says it's a 'huge opportunity to try and drive forward change'.

He acknowledged that being in charge of government's largest-spending department was seen by some as a 'poisoned challice'.

But having become known as a vocal critic of some of his predecessor's policies since entering the Keys in 2016, Mr Ashford has pledged to 'invest [his] heart and soul' into the role.