Liberal Democrat Shadow Cabinet Reshuffle

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Tue 14th Oct 2003

Rt. Hon. Charles Kennedy MP today announced the following changes to the Liberal Democrat Shadow Cabinet.

Vincent Cable MP becomes Shadow Chancellor; Mark Oaten MP takes over as Shadow Home Secretary; Paul Burstow MP becomes Shadow Health Secretary; Simon Hughes MP will be Spokesperson for London as well as London Mayoral Candidate.

John Thurso MP will combine Shadow Transport and Scotland Secretary; Don Foster MP becomes Shadow Secretary for Culture, Media and Sport; Sandra Gidley MP will be Spokesman for Older People as well as Shadow Minister for Women.

Tom Brake MP joins the Shadow Cabinet as Shadow Secretary for International Development; Malcolm Bruce MP rejoins the Shadow Cabinet as Shadow Secretary for Trade and Industry. Evan Harris MP, Nick Harvey MP, Sir Archy Kirkwood MP and Jenny Tonge MP are all stepping down.

The Liberal Democrat leader said: "I am delighted to confirm this revised set of appointments, consisting of the parliamentary team which will take us forward to the next General Election."

"The Liberal Democrats go into the new parliamentary season both united and determined, positive and outward-looking. We are ready to compete even more effectively with the other two parties and argue with sincerity and persuasion for our vision of an improved Britain."

"The party conference season, which followed the remarkable Brent by-election campaign, has confirmed a Labour government riven with rivalries and a Conservative party consumed with bitterness. The contrast with the Liberal Democrats could hardly be more pronounced."

"The new team provides the appropriate blend of experience and youth which is the hallmark of our party. I look forward with fresh enthusiasm to the great challenges and opportunities ahead."