Stephen Williams said, "I am delighted to be promoted to Nick's new top team. This is a key policy area for the Liberal Democrats and I am committed to giving everyone the chance to fulfil their potential and giving Britain the skills we need to compete in a 21st century world economy."
"I'm also lucky that in Bristol, the city that I represent in Parliament, there are two renowned universities, a first rate further education college and world class companies that are making and developing world beating products."
Stephen Williams had previously been the Lib Dems's Shadow Schools Minister, from July 2007. Prior to that he was Lib Dem Shadow Minister for Further and Higher Education for 15 months. Since July 2005 he has been a member of the cross party House of Commons Select Committee on Education & Skills. He also chairs the Liberal Democrat policy group on further and higher education which is preparing new policies for approval at the party's Autumn 2008 conference.
"I'm sure that my various Parliamentary and party roles have given me a good grounding for my new role. But my own personal journey from being the state educated son of a road worker and a school dinner lady to becoming a university graduate and an MP gives me the inspiration and determination to help everyone develop their full potential and make a positive contribution."
