Kemi Badenoch makes first senior appointment as Tory leader

UK

Kemi Badenoch has made her first senior appointment as the new Conservative Party leader.

It is understood that Rebecca Harris, MP for the Essex constituency of Castle Point, will be the party’s chief whip – replacing Stuart Andrew.

Mr Andrew wrote on the X social media platform: “It has been an honour and a privilege to serve as the Conservative Party Chief Whip.

“She [Harris] is a great friend and a brilliant whip. I wish her all the best in the role.”

The announcement comes a day after Ms Badenoch beat Robert Jenrick to replace Rishi Sunak as the party’s leader.

Politics latest: Follow live updates

The 44-year-old North West Essex MP did not immediately announce who would make up her top team, but suggested all of those who ran against her in the leadership should be involved.

However, former Foreign Secretary James Cleverly revealed the day before the result that he would be returning to the backbenches.

Read more:
Who is Kemi Badenoch’s husband?
Combative past of new Tory leader

Tory members react to Kemi Badenoch’s leadership win

This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly.

Please refresh the page for the fullest version.

You can receive breaking news alerts on a smartphone or tablet via the Sky News app. You can also follow @SkyNews on X or subscribe to our YouTube channel to keep up with the latest news.

Articles You May Like

Tesla announces 500 kW charging as it finally delivers V4 Supercharger cabinets
Honda unveils all-solid-state EV battery production line for the first time
Damen sets a world record for most powerful electric tugboat
One of our lagging stocks has found its stride and is outperforming its peers
Palantir jumps 11% to a record after announcing move to Nasdaq