Former Prime Minister takes key role amid Sunak’s Cabinet shake-up

In a striking turn of events, former Prime Minister David Cameron returned to frontline politics on Monday, stepping into the role of Foreign Secretary during Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s extensive Cabinet reshuffle. Cameron’s appointment, confirmed shortly after he was seen entering Number 10, marked the first time since Alec Douglas-Home that a former prime minister has made a comeback to government service.

BBC’s Chief Political Correspondent, Henry Zeffman, captured the mood of surprise and disbelief live on air. Observing Cameron’s entry into Downing Street, Zeffman, visibly astonished, commented, “I’m a bit tired, but I don’t think I’ve had a funny turn? David Cameron, former Prime Minister, is walking into Number 10. It appears Rishi Sunak is making him Foreign Secretary.”

The reshuffle followed the sacking of Suella Braverman as Home Secretary, which triggered a wave of high-profile changes. James Cleverly, the outgoing Foreign Secretary, assumed Braverman’s former role, while Cameron’s appointment signals Sunak’s intent to unify his Cabinet amidst ongoing challenges.

Speaking on his return, Cameron said, “We face a daunting array of international issues, including the war in Ukraine and turmoil in the Middle East. I hope my experience as Conservative leader and Prime Minister will assist the government in addressing these vital challenges.”

Cameron’s return has stirred considerable reaction in Westminster, with critics pointing out the lack of female representation in the country’s top four offices of state — Prime Minister, Chancellor, Foreign Secretary, and Home Secretary. However, Sunak views the reshuffle as a step towards a more cohesive Cabinet.

A No10 spokesperson remarked, “The Prime Minister’s reshuffle aims to build a united team to drive long-term change.”

Braverman’s departure followed mounting controversies, including comments branding pro-Palestinian demonstrations as “hate marches” and remarks about homelessness. Reflecting on her tenure, she stated, “Serving as Home Secretary has been the greatest privilege of my life.”