David Cameron appointed as foreign secretary in shock comeback
The former PM, a strong supporter of Israel, replaces new home secretary James Cleverly in the foreign secretary's role
Lee Harpin is the Jewish News's political editor
David Cameron has been appointed as foreign secretary in a shock comeback as Rishi Sunak reshuffled his cabinet.
Cameron, who resigned as prime minister in 2016 after losing the Brexit referendum, will become a peer in the House of Lords in order to take up the post, where he replaces new home secretary James Cleverly.
The ex-PM’s appointment came as some surprise on Monday, as Sunak attempted to freshen up his top team.
In a statement following his appointment Cameron said:”The Prime Minister has asked me to serve as his Foreign Secretary and I have gladly accepted.
“We are facing a daunting set of international challenges, including the war in Ukraine and the crisis in the Middle East. At this time of profound global change, it has rarely been more important for this country to stand by our allies, strengthen our partnerships and make sure our voice is heard.
“While I have been out of front-line politics for the last seven years, I hope that my experience – as Conservative Leader for eleven years and Prime Minister for six – will assist me in helping the Prime Minister to meet these vital challenges.
“Britain is a truly international country. Our people live all over the world and our businesses trade in every corner of the globe. Working to help ensure stability and security on the global stage is both essential and squarely in our national interest. International security is vital for our domestic security.
“Though I may have disagreed with some individual decisions, it is clear to me that Rishi Sunak is a strong and capable Prime Minister, who is showing exemplary leadership at a difficult time.”
Only last month when he said Rishi Sunak’s decision to cancel the HS2 high-speed train line between Birmingham and Manchester was wrong, adding: “We are heading in the wrong direction.”
But friends Cameron, who will become a Lord, had previously suggested he was looking for a return to frontline politics, with the role as foreign secretary said to be his favoured post.
Cameron has long voiced his support for the state of Israel and in a speech in 2011 said: “You have a prime minister whose commitment and determination to work for peace in Israel is deep and strong. Britain will continue to push for peace, but will always stand up for Israel against those who wish her harm.”
He has voiced his opposition to the BDS movement and has noted how:”Britain has played a proud and vital role in helping to secure Israel as a homeland for the Jewish people.”
Cameron has also met both with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas in the past.
He is still seen as a moderate voice in the Tory Party, and by appointing him Sunak has attempted to show he is acting independently from louder voices on the right-wing.
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