Sutherland MP laments 'deeply undemocratic' shock move over new foreign secretary claiming Tory government 'out of talent'

Sutherland MP Jamie Stone has offered a scathing "out of talent" verdict on Rishi Sunak's choice as the new Foreign Secretary.

Former Prime Minister David Cameron has returned to government as UK foreign secretary in what many regard as a stunning comeback for the former prime minister.

It was part of a reshuffle in which Suella Braverman was sacked as Home Secretary and replaced by the Foreign Secretary, James Cleverly.

Tain-based Sutherland MP Jamie Stone said of the move: "It's quite clear that this Government is not just out of ideas, but out of talent too. Given the gravity of the current international catastrophe unfolding in the Middle East, it is more important than ever that MPs like me can scrutinise the Government's actions and we can't do that if our new externally recruited Foreign Secretary, David Cameron, is based in the House of Lords.

"I have been inundated with correspondence from constituents who are concerned about the UK's role in the international community. I have a responsibility to represent them, but my ability to do so is severely undermined by this deeply undemocratic move by Rishi Sunak."

Mr Cameron for his part took to social media to state: "The Prime Minister has asked me to serve as his Foreign Secretary and I have gladly accepted."

He said: "We are facing a daunting set of international challenges, including the war in Ukraine and the crisis in the Middle East. At this time of profound global change, it has rarely been more important for this country to stand by our allies, strengthen our partnerships and make sure our voice is heard.

"While I have been out of front-line politics for the last seven years, I hope that my experience – as Conservative Leader for eleven years and Prime Minister for six – will assist me in helping the Prime Minister to meet these vital challenges.

"Britain is a truly international country. Our people live all over the world and our businesses trade in every corner of the globe. Working to help ensure stability and security on the global stage is both essential and squarely in our national interest. International security is vital for our domestic security.

"Though I may have disagreed with some individual decisions, it is clear to me that Rishi Sunak is a strong and capable Prime Minister, who is showing exemplary leadership at a difficult time. I want to help him to deliver the security and prosperity our country needs and be part of the strongest possible team that serves the United Kingdom and that can be presented to the country when the General Election is held.

"I believe in public service. That is what first motivated me to get involved in politics in the 1980s, to work in government in the 1990s, become a Member of Parliament in the 2000s and put myself forward as Party Leader and Prime Minister.

"The UK’s Foreign Office, our Diplomatic Service, our Intelligence Services and our Aid and Development capabilities are some of the finest assets of their kind anywhere in the world. I know from my time in office that they are staffed by brilliant, patriotic and hard-working people. They have been well led by James Cleverly, with whom I look forward to working in his vital new role.

"It will be an honour to serve our country alongside our dedicated FCDO staff and provide the continued leadership and support that they deserve."

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