Kemi Badenoch has reshuffled the Conservative shadow cabinet, replacing Mel Stride as shadow chancellor with Andrew Griffith. The move, part of Badenoch’s effort to establish a new economic leadership team focused on growth and fiscal credibility, also saw Claire Coutinho replace Griffith as shadow business secretary, and Tom Tugendhat succeed Priti Patel as shadow foreign secretary. Badenoch praised Stride’s work in rebuilding the party’s economic credibility, stating he brought “experience, seriousness and stability” at a difficult time. Stride described his time in the role as a “great honour” and will continue to contribute from the back benches.
Griffith, a former Sky executive and chairman of Just Eat, emphasized the Conservatives will pursue “an economic revolution” with lower taxes and increased domestic energy production. A senior Conservative source highlighted Griffith’s business experience, contrasting it with what they described as a lack of private sector experience on the Labour front bench. Patel will take on an international role strengthening the party’s relationships abroad, while Stuart Andrew and James Cleverly will return to the backbenches, creating additional vacancies for Badenoch to fill.
The reshuffle comes ahead of the Conservative party conference in October. Badenoch’s changes signal a shift in economic policy, and Griffith’s appointment suggests a focus on pro-growth measures. While Badenoch lauded Stride’s contributions, the changes reflect a desire to present a renewed economic vision for the party. The future of the shadow health and housing secretary roles remains unsettled as Andrew and Cleverly step down.
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