David Cameron’s Unprecedented Return to Government in 2023

Cameron’s return places him in a select group of former British prime ministers who have re-entered government in a diminished capacity.

In a surprising political twist, former British Prime Minister David Cameron has made an unexpected return to government as the foreign secretary. This move, announced in a major Cabinet reshuffle by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, has sparked questions about accountability and the wisdom of bringing back a figure whose legacy, particularly on Brexit, remains deeply divisive.

Cameron’s Unconventional Comeback

David Cameron’s return to a senior government position is a remarkable political comeback. Following his unsuccessful campaign in the 2016 Brexit referendum where he advocated for the UK to remain in the European Union, Cameron promptly resigned. Since then, he has been out of active politics, not even holding a lawmaker’s position. His return, particularly as an unelected member of the House of Lords, raises eyebrows about accountability and the precedent it sets.

A Rare Occurrence

Cameron’s return places him in a select group of former British prime ministers who have re-entered government in a diminished capacity. This move is uncommon, with only about a dozen former leaders having done so since the 1700s. The rarity of such occurrences adds to the scrutiny of Sunak’s decision, especially considering Camron’s contentious legacy.

Cameron’s Political Legacy

Cameron, an Oxford-educated former public relations executive, led the Conservatives back to power in 2010 after 13 years in opposition. His six years in office were marked by attempts to position the Conservative Party in the political center, akin to former Labour premier Tony Blair’s approach. However, his legacy is defined by the harsh austerity measures implemented in response to the 2008 global economic crash and the fateful decision to hold the Brexit referendum.

Under Cameron’s leadership, the UK witnessed deep cuts to social welfare and public spending in healthcare and education. His promise to hold a referendum on EU membership, an attempt to manage internal party dissent, ultimately led to his resignation as the “remain” side lost to the “leave” camp, setting the stage for Brexit.

Controversial Foreign Policies

Cameron’s tenure also saw closer economic ties between Britain and China, culminating in a so-called “golden era” marked by camaraderie with Chinese President Xi Jinping. However, this stance has faced criticism in hindsight as China’s influence is now viewed as a potential threat to international security. Sunak, in a notable departure, distanced himself from Cameron’s China policy, labeling it as “naïve.”

Additionally, Cameron’s foreign policy suffered a setback when his plans for UK military intervention against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad were rejected by his own Conservatives and the opposition in 2013.

Lobbying Scandal

More recently, Cameron was embroiled in a lobbying scandal related to his efforts to secure access to emergency coronavirus loans for a financially troubled firm. As a part-time adviser to Greensill Capital, questions about his conduct raised concerns about unscrupulous practices within the Conservative Party, prompting calls for tighter lobbying rules.

Sunak’s Gamble

Sunak’s decision to bring back Cameron is viewed by many as a political gamble with uncertain outcomes. Some see it as an attempt to introduce a semblance of stability to the government, contrasting with Sunak’s perceived challenges in delivering effective governance. However, critics argue that it might reflect a failure to find suitable candidates.

Questions of Accountability

One of the primary concerns surrounding Cameron’s return is the issue of accountability. Serving in a top government role as an appointed Lord in the House of Lords, Cameron is not an elected lawmaker. This uncommon situation means he will not face regular questioning in the House of Commons, raising questions about transparency and democratic oversight.

Labour Party’s David Lammy voiced concerns about accountability, stating, “Amid an international crisis, Sunak has chosen an unelected failure from the past who MPs cannot even hold to account.” Lindsay Hoyle, the Speaker of the Commons, is exploring options to ensure lawmakers can scrutinize Cameron given the gravity of the current international situation.