Nusrat Ghani has said she “made a bit of history” as she became the first female Muslim minister to speak at the despatch box in the Commons.
The Transport minister, who was promoted to the frontbench in the reshuffle earlier this month, wrote on Twitter that she was supported by her “wonderful” department colleagues as she took questions from MPs during Transport questions.
Ahead of her appearance at the despatch box, Ms Ghani said: “Today marks an important moment for me as the first female Muslim Minister to stand at the despatch box in the House of Commons.
“As many people know, this year is also a significant milestone in this country, as 2018 marks 100 years of votes for women.
“I hope that today, young people can see that regardless of their background, heritage or faith, there will be a warm welcome on the green benches – and no matter where you are from, you can achieve your dreams and ambitions.
“I am thrilled to be a Minister at the Department for Transport, which is working hard to encourage more diversity in the transport sector. I’m excited to meet head on the opportunities and challenges that this new role this will bring.”