PETER Luff's career as a Conservative whip in the House of Commons is set to end in the post-election Tory reshuffle.

The Mid-Worcestershire MP has asked to leave behind the cut and thrust of the whips' office so that he can play a bigger role in Parliament. After five years as the Tories' assistant chief whip, Mr Luff wants to be free of the constraints that a frontbench job entails.

He said: "I have asked for an opportunity to engage with the House of Commons and contribute more freely, because the whips' office can be stultifying.

"I am entirely happy with the situation." As a whip, Mr Luff has had to enforce discipline within the ranks and ensure Tory MPs know the party line.

His move to the backbenches was due to be announced today as part of the second phase of Michael Howard's reshuffle.

Leominster's Bill Wiggin was last night reappointed Shadow Wales Secretary, a position he has held since 2002.

Mr Wiggin will also have new responsibilities in the shadow team for environment, food and rural affairs.

Speaking after receiving the news today, Mr Wiggin said the news was the 'icing on the cake'. He said: "As well as continuing to fight for the priorities and needs of my constituents, I am delighted to be back in my position.

"Representing a rural constituency and also understanding the needs of Wales, I know how important environmental issues are."