James Cleverly Returns as Tory Frontbencher in Team Reshuffle
James Cleverly is set to rejoin the Conservative frontbench as Kemi Badenoch makes changes to her shadow cabinet.
A Conservative insider stated that the former leadership contender, who previously served as home secretary, will take on a "significant position" in the revised lineup.
Edward Argar, the shadow health secretary, is likely to leave his role for personal reasons. "The opposition leader will announce adjustments to her frontbench team today," a Conservative representative confirmed.
"The updates mark the latest phase of the party’s policy review efforts and demonstrate cohesion under fresh leadership. Sir James Cleverly will return to a key frontbench role to challenge the current Labour administration," they added.
An associate close to shadow chancellor Mel Stride suggested he would remain in his current position. Full details of the reshuffle are anticipated later in the day.
Cleverly, a former foreign secretary, had moved to the backbenches after bowing out of the leadership race in the final round of MPs’ votes, leaving Badenoch to compete against Robert Jenrick for the members’ vote. Jenrick, who continues to seek leadership opportunities, has maintained a visible presence as shadow justice secretary.
During a recent speech, Cleverly cautioned his party against adopting a populist strategy that mimics Nigel Farage’s Reform UK.
He dismissed speculation about replacing Badenoch, stating the party must "break the cycle of repeatedly changing leaders in hopes of an easy solution."
Cleverly had been considered a potential Conservative mayoral candidate for London but declined to discuss future plans during his speech. He was knighted in April last year.
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