Lib Dems overhaul front bench
Liberal Democrat leader Charles Kennedy has announced wholesale changes to his front bench.
In a bid to embolden his party ahead of the next general election, he has removed leading figures such as Simon Hughes, home affairs spokesman, and Treasury spokesman, Matthew Taylor, to make way for fresh ideas and new blood.
Mark Oaten takes over from Mr Hughes, who is running for the London mayoralty. Mr Hughes stays on the front bench as spokesman for London.
Mr Taylor has been moved to chair of the parliamentary party, perceived by some as a demotion, and has been handed the brief to prepare the election manifesto.
MP for Twickenham Vince Cable takes over his Treasury brief. Dr Cable was a former chief economist at Shell and special adviser to the late Labour leader John Smith.
Dr Cable will work alongside David Laws, an investment banker who continues to shadow the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Paul Boateng.
MP for Sutton and Cheam Paul Burstow is to replace Dr Evan Harris as health spokesman. Dr Harris is to take a “sabbatical” from politics because his girlfriend has a brain tumour.
Sandra Gidley has been appointed spokesman for older people and women and Malcolm Bruce, who rejoins the front bench, will speak on trade and industry.
John Thurso, the first hereditary peer to be elected to the Commons, will speak on transport and Scottish matters.
Don Foster, formerly transport spokesman, has switched to culture, media and sport.
Tom Brake takes over international development from Jenny Tonge, who is standing down at the next election.
Menzies Campbell, the party’s veteran foreign affairs spokesman and deputy leader keeps his post.
Mr Kennedy’s team has been slimmed from 29 to 25, reflecting his party’s commitment to smaller government. Nick Harvey and Sir Archy Kirkwood have lost their front bench roles.
On Tuesday, Sarah Teather, the Brent East by-election winner, will take her seat.
Mr Kennedy said: “The new team provides the appropriate blend of experience and youth which is the hallmark of our party.”
