A paragraph is given with one word highlighted. Find the correct phrase from the following options that should keep the meaning of the word intact without introducing any grammatical error in the sentence.

Two Conservative MPs are understood to have turned down the role of climate change minister earlier in the day. No 10 had announced that Graham Stuart would take the brief and be attending cabinet, however, late on Tuesday news of him being unwell started doing rounds, and he was unable to be present at the briefing.