Michael Gove defends his decision to replace Ofsted chief

Education Secretary Michael Gove said it was "good corporate practice" to regularly "refresh" the leadership of such organisations. Credit: BBC/Andrew Marr Show

The Education Secretary Michael Gove has defended his decision to replace the chair of the school's watchdog Ofsted "in order to bring new eyes to bear".

The decision not to re-appoint Baroness Sally Morgan for a second term has reportedly left his deputy, Liberal Democrat David Laws "absolutely furious" at what he sees as a blatant attempt to "politicise" Ofsted.

Lady Morgan has accused No 10 of trying to fill public bodies with Tory supporters but stressed she had not had any falling out with Mr Gove.

Speaking to the BBC's Andrew Marr Show, Mr Gove said: "She's done a really good job".

He added: "I think it's wrong to claim that this government if favouring one group of individuals over another in public appointments."

ITV News Political Correspondent Carl Dinnen reports: