SOUTH Wales East AM Mike German has been handed the rural development and Wales abroad brief in the National Assembly cabinet.

Mr German was reinstated as deputy first minister last week when police announced he would not face charges following an investigation into past business dealings.

He takes the rural affairs portfolio from Carwyn Jones, who is now designated minister for open government. Mr Jones will continue as business manager.

Edwina Hart, minister for finance, local government and communities, will combine her existing responsibilities with responsibility for action on drug and alcohol abuse