Theresa May announces new cabinet, Damien Green chosen as deputy
Battling against all odds to keep her minority government together, British PM Theresa May has announced her new cabinet with major positions assigned to close aides, including Damien Green who was appointed as 'deputy'. May's office had earlier indicated that she would retain top ministers including Boris Johnson (Foreign Secretary) and Philip Hammond (Chancellor of exchequer). Let's see who else has been appointed!
Theresa May loses overall majority in the British Parliament
As results came in on UK elections, the Conservative Party led by incumbent PM Theresa May failed to secure an overall majority, resulting in a hung Parliament. The result represents a major setback for May, who called for snap elections in April to secure a majority . Post-results, May stated that her Party will continue to ensure stability, the need of the hour.
Who all have retained their Cabinet positions?
Those including Liam Fox, Jeremy Hunt and Justine Greening have retained their positions as Secretary of State for International Trade, Health Secretary and Secretary of State for Education respectively. Greening has additionally been appointed as the minister for women and equalities. Greg Clarke has also retained his earlier position as secretary of state for business, energy and industrial strategy.
Other appointments
While the position of Chief Secretary of Treasury has been awarded to Liz Truss, with an additional right to attend cabinet, Gavin Williamson and Chris Grayling have been appointed Chief Whip and Transport minister respectively. Most senior Indian-origin MP Priti Patel and Pakistani-origin MP Sajid Javid have further retained positions as Secretaries of State for international development and for communities and local government respectively.
What's on May's mind?
The new appointments can be understood as May's effort to surround herself with trusted allies within the Party, in the background of increasing discontent within the Conservative Party against her tactical error in calling for the snap elections. May is also possibly looking to put together a team that could help her win the upcoming vote of confidence in the Parliament.
