Richard Holden, Conservative Party Chairman, Resigns Following Election Loss
Former Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron is not part of the interim shadow Cabinet, as confirmed by the Tories.
In a letter resigning to former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Mr. Holden stated that he would assist in the Tory review of the election but not lead it.
“I am confident that our party can and will recover swiftly, positioning ourselves to challenge the government in the national interest as we prepare to defeat Labour and secure victory in the next general election,” he expressed in his letter.
Richard Fuller, representing the North Bedfordshire constituency, has taken over as party chairman.
“United as a party, we will be prepared and capable of holding this new Labour government accountable every step of the way,” Mr. Fuller declared in a statement.
“The Conservative Party faced a challenging election, and it is crucial that we regroup and analyze these results.
Related Stories
“We must also honestly and thoroughly evaluate the Conservative Party’s strengths throughout the country and identify areas for improvement.
“I am privileged to serve as the interim chairman of the Conservative Party and collaborate with colleagues in the shadow cabinet.”
In the same announcement confirming Mr. Holden’s resignation, the Tories disclosed that Lord Cameron, the former foreign secretary in the outgoing government, had also resigned.
Andrew Mitchell, previously deputy foreign secretary in the last government, has been appointed as his replacement.
Lord Cameron expressed on social media platform X that he was “happy” that Mr. Mitchell had taken over and described his time as foreign secretary as a “great honor.”
“As a dedicated Conservative, I will continue to support the Party and assist in rebuilding from the extremely disappointing election outcome,” he added.
Other members in the opposition front bench include Oliver Dowden as deputy leader of the opposition, Jeremy Hunt as shadow chancellor, and James Cleverly as shadow home secretary.
Victoria Atkins is the shadow health secretary, while Claire Coutinho retains her energy security and net zero portfolio in opposition, alongside Steve Barclay as shadow environment, food, and rural affairs secretary, and Mel Stride as shadow work and pensions secretary.
Kemi Badenoch has assumed the former levelling up, housing, and communities brief previously held by Michael Gove.
Kevin Hollinrake is now responsible for business and trade, and Mims Davies oversees women and equalities.
Other additions to the opposition front benches are James Cartlidge as shadow defence secretary, Ed Argar as shadow justice secretary, and Chris Philp as shadow leader of the Commons.
PA Media contributed to this report.
