Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has initiated a major shake-up of her shadow cabinet, resulting in the departure of high-profile figures Sir Mel Stride and Dame Priti Patel. The reshuffle, which comes ahead of the party’s upcoming conference in October, aims to establish a new leadership team as the party prepares for its next phase of opposition.
Andrew Griffith has been appointed as the new shadow chancellor, succeeding Sir Mel, who had held the position since 2024. Meanwhile, Tom Tugendhat takes over as shadow foreign secretary, replacing Dame Priti. Additionally, Claire Coutinho will return from maternity leave to serve as shadow business secretary, acting as a deputy to Griffith.
Background on the New Shadow Chancellor
- Professional Experience: Before entering Parliament as the MP for Arundel and South Downs in 2019, Griffith held senior executive roles at Sky and served as chairman of Just Eat.
- Government Record: As a Treasury minister, he was responsible for financial services policy and defended the 2022 mini-budget introduced by Liz Truss.
- Strategic Focus: A senior Conservative source described him as a “no-nonsense, pro-growth” figure with significant business expertise.
- Policy Vision: Griffith has pledged an “economic revolution” centered on reducing taxes, increasing domestic energy production, cutting red tape, and challenging Labour’s Employment Rights Act.
Badenoch expressed gratitude for Sir Mel’s tenure, noting his efforts in rebuilding the party’s economic credibility. Sir Mel, who described his time in the role as a “great honour,” stated he plans to continue contributing to the Conservative team from the backbenches. A senior party source emphasized that the changes reflect a new approach to economic policy, prioritizing growth and fiscal responsibility.
The appointment of Griffith drew immediate criticism from the Liberal Democrats. Treasury spokesperson Daisy Cooper argued that his involvement in the 2022 mini-budget contributed to economic instability and rising mortgage costs. She claimed the move suggests the Conservatives have failed to learn from past mistakes and are prioritizing a “race to the bottom” with Reform UK.
Dame Priti, who had served as shadow foreign secretary since 2024, is set to transition into an international role focused on strengthening ties with sister parties and centre-right movements abroad. Further changes are expected, as Stuart Andrew has confirmed his return to the backbenches, leaving the shadow health secretary position vacant. These developments follow the recent resignation of Sir James Cleverly, who stepped down from the front bench to pursue a bid for London mayor. The report also notes that investment and jobs,” he said, the Conservatives will always back the risk-takers and wealth creators who deliver growth. The report also notes that it’s clear Conservatives haven’t learned a thing. The report also notes that to build and amplify our vision for Britain, from the back benches, i am now looking forward to continuing to make a real contribution to the Conservative team in Parliament and beyond.
