Conservative leader and Leader of the Opposition Stephen Harper announced changes in caucus assignments Monday.

John Reynolds, MP (West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country, BC) has been reappointed as National Campaign Chair for the next election. "John will once again be a formidable ally during the next election campaign as National Chair for the Conservative campaign," said Harper.

Reynolds has announced that he will not be seeking re-election and will be stepping aside as Opposition House Leader for the duration of the 38th Parliament. "John has been a steadfast Conservative, a consummate politician, and a great friend. While we will miss his presence in the House following the next election, Canadians have been fortunate that a man of his calibre has dedicated himself to public service for so many years. I thank him for his leadership and support through good times and bad."

Jay Hill, MP (Prince George-Peace River, BC) replaces Reynolds as Opposition House Leader. "Jay will be an experienced hand in the House Leader's role. He has a solid understanding of the House of Commons, and a no-nonsense style that will be beneficial in his new capacity," Harper said.

Rob Nicholson, MP (Niagara Falls, ON) replaces Hill as Opposition Whip. "Since his re-entry into national Conservative politics, Rob has been a valuable member of the team in the House of Commons," Harper said. "He has experience both in opposition and in government as Minister of Science and Minister Responsible for Small Businesses. He has earned the respect of his colleagues on both sides of the House."

Helena Guergis, MP (Simcoe-Grey, ON) has been named Deputy Critic for Seniors' Issues. "In her short time in Ottawa, Helena has proven herself as a hard working and thoughtful Parliamentarian," Harper said. "She has a solid background on seniors issues gained as a key adviser to former Ontario cabinet minister Janet Ecker in several portfolios in the provincial government. I am confident she will ably advance the interests of Canadian seniors."

On an interim basis, James Moore, MP (Port Moody-Westwood-Port Coquitlam, BC) will assume the duties of Critic for both Transport and Amateur Sport, in addition to his current duties as Public Works Critic. "James has demonstrated a firm grasp of Transport policy in the past," Harper said. "In addition, as a native of British Columbia, he will play an important role as Amateur Sport Critic with the 2010 Vancouver-Whistler Olympics approaching."