NEW justice secretary Robert Buckland rejected criticism from opponents and pledged to keep Swindon issues a priority in his first print interview since being appointed to the role.

Prime minister Boris Johnson put the South Swindon MP and QC in charge of overseeing the country's courts and prisons systems as they undergo major structural reform.

Mr Buckland said: "It’s a big honour and responsibility to take the helm of the Ministry of Justice. I’ve had considerable experience in justice issues for many years as a lawyer and minister so I feel ready to assume this responsibility and look forward to the challenge.

"There are major ongoing reforms of the probation system, improvements to the prison system and, potentially, reforms of the way we sentence criminals - including a look at sentence maximums for offences.

“I’m going to help drive through a massive program of change. We are working to ensure that our courts and judicial system remains the envy of the world.”

Labour parliamentary candidate for South Swindon Sarah Church said: “I congratulate Robert Buckland on his promotion but it means his promise to prevent a no-deal Brexit has gone out of the window.

“This is a serious let down for a very significant number of residents."

Mr Buckland added: “I reject that criticism, it’s utterly wrong. I have always supported an orderly Brexit and campaigned against a crash-out. I want us to leave the EU in an orderly way with a deal.

“It would be easier to walk away an give up responsibility for these issues but it’s better to be involved."

Ms Church added: “Have we ever had such a right-wing cabinet? Really worrying choices include Priti Patel for Home Secretary.

“She had to step down following misconduct in her former cabinet role so I’m not clear what makes her fit to govern now, other than a determination to crash us out of the EU.

“Gavin Williamson as education secretary is another unsuitable choice.”

Concerns with the proposed move of Cavendish Square's post office and other Swindon issues have kept Mr Buckland occupied while he was prisons minister.

He was quick to reassure residents that these matters would still be a focus for him even as he takes on extra responsibilities in the cabinet.

He added: “I’ve been a minister for five years and have always made time to deal with Swindon issues, it’s my home and I love it dearly.

“I will be back every week to see residents, meet businesses and community groups and work hard to engage with the people of South Swindon.”

Congratulations continued to pour in for Mr Buckland throughout his first day in the new job.

Ministry of Justice permanent secretary Richard Heaton said: “I was delighted to welcome Robert Buckland QC MP to his new role. Already a justice minister, former Law Officer, knows the field well.”

Victims’ Commissioner for London Claire Waxman said: “Congratulations to Robert Buckland. Hope he continues his support for victim’s rights as he was pivotal in helping us achieve Stalking Law. Look forward to working again with him.

An Apex Chambers spokesman said: “We are delighted that one of our own has been appointed Lord Chancellor.”

A spokesman for the Bar Council said: “We welcome the appointment of Robert Buckland as Lord Chancellor.

“His experience from practise at the Bar and from positions he has held in government will be invaluable in guiding the Ministry of Justice and protecting our justice system.

“We look forward to working with him”

Mr Buckland noted that he is the first Lord Chancellor from Llanelli since Lord Elwyn Jones.

To his predecessor David Gauke MP, he said: “You have been a great Lord Chancellor and have served with distinction. I will do my best as your successor.”