NEW RESPONSIBILITY: David Carter will take over the Government's local council reforms.

David Carter is to take over local government reforms started by disgraced minister Nick Smith.

Prime Minister John Key this afternoon announced a minor reshuffle after the departure of shamed former minister Nick Smith.

Carter was named as successor to Smith as local government minister. He is already primary industries minister.

FAIRFAX NEW BLOOD: John Key will today reveal his Cabinet reshuffle.

National's MP for Tauranga Simon Bridges is to be appointed a minister outside Cabinet as part of the changes, and Napier MP Chris Tremain, who is currently outside Cabinet, will move into Cabinet at number 20.

Smith resigned his ministerial warrants two weeks ago after admitting he wrote letters for friend and ACC whistleblower Bronwyn Pullar while he was the minister of ACC.

He also admitted failing to declare a conflict of interest when he signed off a letter to Pullar on behalf of the Corporation.

Smith, who is also the MP for Nelson, held the local government, environment and climate change portfolios.

Local government reforms were an important part of the Government's agenda, Key said.

"Mr Carter is an experienced Minister and I'm confident he will drive these reforms along."

Internal Affairs Minister Amy Adams will become Environment Minister and hand over the Internal Affairs portfolio to Tremain.

Trade Minister Tim Groser will also become the new Minister for Climate Change Issues.

Bridges will take over consumer affairs and associate transport from Tremain.

He will also be Associate Minister for Climate Change Issues.

Bridges will be sworn in at 11am tomorrow by Governor-General Sir Jerry Mateparae.

Key said Bridges had proven himself an able member of the National caucus.

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