Julian Smith’s job was thought to be safe after he secured a power-sharing deal at Stormont

The Northern Ireland secretary Julian Smith was fighting for his future last night as he looked poised to be one of the biggest casualties of Boris Johnson’s cabinet reshuffle.

He had been considered safe after securing a power-sharing deal at Stormont. However, Mr Johnson was said to have felt “blindsided” by the deal, which includes an investigation into alleged crimes by British soldiers in the Troubles. “There is concern about the way he’s been operating,” a senior government source said.

The Times understands that the cabinet was fully briefed on the deal before it was agreed, including on aspects concerning historic investigations.

The prime minister will promote a prominent female Brexiteer to his top team but make women bear the brunt of his clear-out. Anne-Marie