Brownlee will focus solely on quake relief

MP Gerry Brownlee may be relieved of his other portfolios in order to concentrate on disaster relief. Photo / Mark Mitchell

National MP Gerry Brownlee is to focus solely on helping Christchurch recover from the devastating 6.3 magnitude earthquake that struck the city on Tuesday.

Prime Minister John Key announced this morning he is removing all Mr Brownlee's portfolios except for his position as earthquake recovery minister.

Building and Construction Minister Maurice Williamson will be the associate minister for earthquake recovery, while Simon Power will take over as acting leader of the house.

Agriculture minister David Carter will be acting economic development minister and rookie MP Hekia Parata will take over as energy minister.