Conservatives Unveil Interim Shadow Cabinet as Cameron and Holden Resign

As the Conservatives faced a significant reshuffling in their top team, Andrew Mitchell has been appointed as the Shadow Foreign Secretary while Kemi Badenoch moves to the communities portfolio. This change came after the resignations of former Prime Minister David Cameron and Richard Holden from their roles in Rishi Sunak‘s interim shadow cabinet.

The adjustments also saw Jeremy Hunt remain as the Shadow Chancellor and James Cleverly as the Shadow Home Secretary, while Oliver Dowden continues in his role as Sunak’s deputy. Other replacements include James Cartlidge taking over defense from Grant Shapps, and Ed Argar stepping in for Alex Chalk in the justice brief.

Former ministers who have remained in their positions include Victoria Atkins in health, Steve Barclay in the environment, Mel Stride as Shadow Work and Pension Secretary, and Claire Coutinho on energy security and net zero responsibilities.

Kemi Badenoch has shifted to the role of Shadow Communities Secretary, succeeding Michael Gove who stepped down as an MP. Among other changes, Helen Whately, previously the Social Care Minister, now holds the Shadow Transport Secretary position, succeeding Mark Harper.

In the interim party chair role, Richard Fuller replaces Richard Holden, emphasizing the need for reflection and regrouping following the Conservatives’ significant losses in the general election. Rishi Sunak, who remains leader of the opposition until a successor is chosen, confirmed the reshuffled shadow cabinet as the party navigates its rebuilding process.