The Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Dr Derek Sikua, has appointed the Temotu Vatu MP, Clay Forau, as the new Minister for Health and Medical Services.
Mr Forau replaces Martin Maga who is undergoing medical treatment in Sydney.
Mr Maga became seriously ill two weeks ago while returning from an official engagement overseas.
Mr Forau has been Minister of Health and Medical Services previously, in 2006 and 2007, during the term of the Sogavare Government.
He says one of his first tasks will be to push for a law change to limit smoking, and ban smoking in public places such as restaurants and on public transport.
