Former Prime Minister David Cameron has dramatically re-entered government after seven years out of frontline politics.
Amid the sacking of Suella Braverman as Home Secretary by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, the former Tory leader - now Lord Cameron - has been confirmed as Foreign Secretary. He replaced James Cleverly at the Foreign Office as the Braintree MP moved across to fill the vacancy left by Mrs Braverman’s departure.
It was announced earlier on Monday morning Mrs Braverman was leaving government as part of a wider reshuffle and mounting pressure on the Prime Minister to act.
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Mr Cameron returns to frontline politics more than seven years after he resigned after losing the controversial Brexit referendum. Despite not being a Member of Parliament, he can serve in cabinet after being appointed a life peer by the King on advice from the Prime Minister.
In a statement posted on social media, Mr Cameron said he had “gladly accepted” the invitation to return to Westminster. He said: “We are facing a daunting set of international challenges, including the war in Ukraine and the crisis in the Middle East.
“At this time of profound global change, it has rarely been more important for this country to stand by our allies, strengthen our partnerships and make sure our voice is heard.”
The former PM said Britain is a “truly international country” and international security was “vital for domestic security.” He added: “Though I may have disagreed with some individual decisions, it is clear to me that Rishi Sunak is a strong and capable Prime Minister, who is showing exemplary leadership at a difficult time.
“I want to help him to deliver the security and prosperity our country needs and be part of the strongest possible team that serves the United Kingdom and that can be presented to the country when the General Election is held.”
Lord Cameron’s return to government is the first by a previous Prime Minister since Alec Douglas-Home also took up the role of Foreign Secretary in 1970. Another former PM, Theresa May, said her previous boss’ experience on the international stage “will be invaluable” in his role as Foreign Secretary.
The move was criticised by Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region. Calling for a general election on social media, he said: "Back to the future with another failed Tory Prime Minister.
"The last desperate acts of a dying government. The country needs a change."
Labour's campaign co-ordinator Pat McFadden said: "A few weeks ago, Rishi Sunak said David Cameron was part of a failed status quo, now he’s bringing him back as his life raft. This puts to bed the Prime Minister's laughable claim to offer change from 13 years of Tory failure."
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