Conservative MP Peter Bone said the "first duty" of the deputy PM was to "support the prime minister", and claimed Mr Clegg had "swished away" the doctrine of collective responsibility by making a separate statement.

BBC: PM 'wary' of Leveson recommendations on press law

Mr Lamb, who has been among the deputy PM's closest advisers, will be replaced by East Dunbartonshire MP Jo Swinson.

BBC: Davey takes over as energy secretary from Chris Huhne

The defence minister, Kevan Jones, confirmed PM's story in the House of Commons on Thursday following a question from a Conservative MP.

BBC: Army to restrict foreign recruits