Full report: Michael Gove out of education, William Hague quits as Foreign Secretary amid major cabinet reshuffle

Amidst the biggest reshuffle since David Cameron became the Prime Minister, William Hauge has stood down as Foreign Secretary.

Cameron has moved at least six Cabinet members and ousted more older male ministers to make way for a series of young women, who will be promoted on Tuesday. Those who were axed in their positions included Ken Clarke, Dominic Grieve, and David Willetts. Owen Patterson was also sacked.

Meanwhile, it is understood that Mr Hague will be replaced by Phillip Hammond, the Defence Secretary and a noted Eurosceptic. Hague isn't gone, however, as he is now leader of the commons after Andrew Lansley got the sack.

Paying tribute to Mr Hague, Mr Cameron said: “William Hague has been one of the leading lights of the Conservative Party for a generation, leading the party and serving in two cabinets. Not only has he been a first class Foreign Secretary – he has also been a close confidant, a wise counsellor and a great friend.”

Another significant change came in the form of Michael Gove being ousted Education Secretary only to be swiftly replaced by junior Treasury minister Nicky Morgan. Morgan became the first woman promoted to the Cabinet in the reshuffle.

The prime minister has in the past been reluctant to make major changes. However, in his desire to increase the chances of winning in May’s general election, he embarked on a series of significant changes starting yesterday.