Iain Duncan Smith to head DWP
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Former Conservative leader Iain Duncan Smith has been named Secretary of State for Work and Pensions in David Cameron’s coalition Cabinet.
He replaces Yvette Cooper. Meanwhile, former Shadow Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Theresa May has taken on the role of Home Secretary. Other notable appointments include Liberal Democrat deputy leader Vince Cable as Business Secretary.
The position is a return to frontline politics for Duncan Smith, the MP for Chingford and Woodford Green.
He was first elected in 1992 without any prior government experience.
In his first Parliament, Duncan Smith was one of few new MPs to join the Maastricht rebellions against then Tory leader John Major. A former army officer who saw active service in Northern Ireland, he was a shadow defence secretary under William Hague.
He beat competition from Cabinet colleague, Kenneth Clarke, to take on the party leadership role in September 2001.
In November 2002, he urged his party to “unite or die”, but was ousted a year later after narrowly failing in a vote of confidence.
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Readers' comments (3)
Jill terr | 13 May 2010 2:47 pm
At least its not Ken clarke, that man is a repugnant fool
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Colin Ward | 19 May 2010 7:17 pm
Sir,
Welcome back to the front line.
In your new position, please be kind enough to have a look at the pension claim from the AFPG. We are not asking for the earth, just justice.
Thank you for your consideration and time,
Colin Ward ex RAF
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Anonymous | 6 Dec 2010 4:50 pm
I just thought Mr Smith would like to know what it's really like out here in the 'real world'. I've been job hunting for over 6months, can show copies of all the letters/emails I've sent (must be hundreds) and I'm getting really depressed with the situation. Most companies don't even have the manners to say 'thanks but no thanks', even when I've enclosed a self stamped addressed envelope, I don't always get a reply! On your bike - yes we've all heard that one, and I've even tried that looking as far a field as Bristol/Bedford/Worcs and Northwich - I'm on a loser before I even start with those, a catch 22 situation, I'm not in the area, so I don't get an interview, I can't rent a property as I haven't got a job and without a local address I can't get an interview? As bills still have to be paid, and I'm getting really desperate now, any suggestions will be gratefully received. Many thanks
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