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by Ruaraidh Gilmour and Tom Scotson
13 November 2023
David Cameron appointed foreign secretary

David Cameron resigned as prime minister in 2016 | Alamy

David Cameron appointed foreign secretary

David Cameron has been appointed foreign secretary as the prime minister begins a major cabinet reshuffle.  

The former prime minister, who has not been an elected member of parliament since 2016, will take up a seat in the House of Lords allowing him to join the government. 

He has replaced James Cleverly, who was moved to home secretary after Suella Braverman was sacked this morning.  

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has been under pressure to reshuffle his cabinet in the run up to the next election, which is expected to take place in Autumn 2024.   

More changes are expected to be made with Therese Coffey, the environment secretary, and Steve Barclay, the health secretary, thought to be at risk of losing their jobs.  

Downing Street has also confirmed that Jeremy Hunt will remain as chancellor. 

Cameron announced he was stepping down as prime minister the day after the Brexit referendum in June 2016, after Britain voted to leave the European Union. 

Cameron 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.

"While I have been out of front-line politics for the last seven years, I hope that my experience – as Conservative Leader for eleven years and Prime Minister for six – will assist me in helping the Prime Minister to meet these vital challenges.

"Britain is a truly international country. Our people live all over the world and our businesses trade in every corner of the globe. Working to help ensure stability and security on the global stage is both essential and squarely in our national interest. International security is vital for our domestic security.

"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."

 

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