Dominic Raab and Grant Shapps have been ousted as Liz Truss begins her cabinet clear-out.

Both were sacked within an hour of the new prime minister finishing her first speech as prime minister.

Along with health secretary Steve Barclay, who has also confirmed his departure, they all share on thing in common: they backed Rishi Sunak in the leadership contest.

Word of the two high profile departures came minutes after she stepped into Number 10 for the first time as PM.

Ms Truss is expected to appoint a number of key supporters in crucial posts as she pushes ahead with her planned reset of government economic policy.

A number of big exits are expected tonight before senior appointments are made ahead of a cabinet meeting tomorrow.

It comes after home secretary Priti Patel confirmed she would also be leaving her post last night.

Culture secretary Nadine Dorries, who is reportedly set to be handed a seat in the House of Lord by Boris Johnson, is expected to step down too.

The justice secretary was a prominent backer of Mr Sunak and widely expected to get the chop in the event of a Truss victory.

Mr Shapps was reportedly offered the chance to move to another role from the transport department but has seemingly turned down the offer.

Thanks to the brilliant MoJ team for all their hard work over the last year. Good luck to the new PM and her team. I look forward to supporting the government from the backbenches.

It has been a privilege to serve as Transport Secretary; a job I loved. Now I look forward to being a strong, independent voice on the backbenches, developing policies that will further the Conservative cause and the interests of my constituents in Welwyn Hatfield.

After 7 years in government I am returning to the backbenches. Thanks to all colleagues, both political & civil service, for their fantastic support. Wishing @trussliz & her ministerial team every success for the future.

Thank you so much to the amazing team of officials at the Home Office. It has been the privilege of my life to serve as Home Secretary for the past three years and I’m so grateful for your dedication and service. pic.twitter.com/S82x2ZoMwn

Liz Truss began her premiership by meeting with the Queen at Balmoral before jetting back to London to give a speech in Downing Street.

Heavy showers threatened to disrupt her plans but she managed to speak to the nation during a brief gap in the rain.

She said: ‘We shouldn’t be daunted by the challenges we may face.

‘As strong as the storm may be, I know the British people are stronger.’

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