The former MP for North Norfolk was appointed parliamentary under secretary of state at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy at the end of last year.

Lord Prior’s responsibilities will include infrastructure, construction and industrial policy.

He had previously served as minister for NHS productivity from May 2015 to December 2016.

From 1997 to 2001, Lord Prior served as the Conservative MP for North Norfolk and went on to become deputy chairman and CEO of the Conservative Party.

Brian Berry, chief executive of the Federation of Master Builders, said: “We welcome the appointment of Lord Prior, whose combination of political and professional experience should leave him well placed to forge the strong, collaborative relationship that is needed between industry and government.

“It’s undoubtedly an exciting time for the construction sector as we respond to the opportunities and challenges which stem from the recommendations made by the recent Farmer and Bonfield reviews.

“We look forward to working with the new minister and ensuring that he understands fully the perspective of the small and micro construction firms which make up the vast bulk of our industry.”