On Tuesday, 25 October, Liz Truss walked out of 10 Downing Street to address Britons for the last time as Prime Minister. Shortly after, Rishi Sunak headed to Buckingham Palace for an audience with King Charles III before appointing his cabinet.
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“I wish Rishi Sunak every success for the good of our country,” Truss said, adding that she would continue her political career on the backbenches of Parliament. Despite the expected political and economic turbulence, she spoke with a smile and an encouraging tone. “I believe in the British people — and I know that brighter days lie ahead,” she assured.
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Her successor announced he would keep Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt in office, most likely to soothe financial markets. The same fate awaited Ben Wallace, who has been held in his position as Defence Minister. James Cleverly was also reappointed to his job as Foreign Secretary.
Less than a week after being forced to resign, Suella Braverman is back in business as Home Secretary. Grant Shapps was appointed as Business Secretary to replace Jacob Rees-Mogg, who resigned, while Simon Hart became Chief Whip.
Following Brandon Lewis’ resignation, Sunak appointed Dominic Raab as Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary, a role that Mr Raab already held under Boris Johnson. The new Secretary of State for Education is Gillian Keegan.
In the context of the general reshuffling, Nadhim Zahawi took the leadership of the Conservative Party.
During his first address to Britain, Sunak announced his willingness to “place economic stability and confidence at the heart of this government’s agenda” – The government I lead will not leave the next generation […] with a debt to settle that we were too weak to pay ourselves. I will unite our country, not with words, but with action. I will work day in and day out to deliver for you. This government will have integrity, professionalism, and accountability at every level.” – he insisted.
The new PM reiterated his gratefulness to Boris Johnson “for his incredible achievements […] warmth and generosity of spirit.” He assured of his readiness to “lead our country into the future, to put your needs above politics, to reach out and build a government that represents the very best traditions of my party.”
Britain is indeed going through uncertain times at the moment. Will Rishi Sunak and his newly appointed be able to lead the country through the storm? Time will tell.
Image: Twitter (@RishiSunak)
Author: Sébastien Meuwissen
