Tony Blair has announced that Tessa Jowell will return to the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) in the new government – a move seen as being designed to preserve continuity for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games bid.

Number 10 is expected to make further public appointments later today, including that of Sports Minister, although it is believed likely that Richard Caborn will return to the post.

Tthe International Olympic Committee will make its decision regarding the host city for the 2012 Games in July.

Blair’s cabinet reshuffle will also see Patricia Hewitt become health minister in place of Melanie Johnson, who lost her seat in the election while David Blunkett will become secretary of state for work and pensions. Details: www.number-10.gov.uk