Michael Cashman: It is ‘deeply worrying’ that Nicky Morgan has been appointed as equalities minister

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Former Labour MEP Michael Cashman has slammed the appointment of Nicky Morgan as minister for women and equalities and education secretary, saying it is “deeply worrying”.

On Tuesday, David Cameron appointed Nicky Morgan as the new Education Secretary and Minister for Women and Equalities.

She is now responsible for schools and the government’s overall strategy on equality. The MP voted against same-sex marriage last year.

Stonewall founder Mr Cashman, who retired as an MEP earlier this month, tweeted to question the appointment: “Nicky Morgan in charge of education and equalities is deeply worrying. The true nature of the Tory party is unchanged and reverting to type.”

Downing Street has defended the appointment of Mrs Morgan, saying as she is also the Education Secretary, she will be responsible for tackling issues such as homophobic bullying in schools.

Many have questioned her appointment, however, as Mrs Morgan, elected to Parliament in 2010, voted against the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act at second and third reading last year, stating that “marriage is between a man and a woman.”