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Minister for Science Resigns Amidst Cabinet Reshuffle, Cites Concerns Over Leadership
Lion Herald Newsletter | Issue #20 - Monday/ November 13, 2023 | Lincoln, UK
Dear Lion Herald Reader,
George Freeman has resigned as the Minister for Science, Research, and Innovation as part of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's recent cabinet reshuffle. Freeman, who was reappointed just last October, explained his decision, stating his intention to prioritize "health, family well-being, and life beyond the front bench."
In his resignation letter addressed to the Prime Minister, Freeman expressed deep regret and outlined concerns about the leadership of the country, government, and party. He emphasized issues of transparency, the handling of key appointments, and the impact on public trust.
"I deeply believe that supporting and harnessing transformation is the only way to the more productive, sustainable, prosperous, and resilient economy and country we so urgently need," Freeman wrote in his letter of resignation, shared on social media.
The departure follows Sunak's broader cabinet reshuffle, which included the removal of Home Secretary Suella Braverman and the appointment of former Prime Minister David Cameron as the new Foreign Secretary. Freeman's resignation adds another layer of complexity to an already turbulent political landscape.
Reflecting on his achievements, Freeman highlighted his pride in serving as the first UK Minister for Life Science, Minister of State for the Future of Transport, and Minister for Science, Research, and Innovation. He pointed out the chaos within the Cabinet and No10, asserting that it is damaging the government's credibility and cannot be allowed to persist.
Chi Onwurah, Labour's shadow minister for science, research, and innovation, paid tribute to Freeman, acknowledging their policy disagreements but praising his unwavering commitment to and enthusiasm for science.
"I know how much the role meant to you and how much your party benefited from your expertise. I will miss our exchanges," Onwurah tweeted.
The reshuffle occurred alongside Sunak's dismissal of Home Secretary Suella Braverman and the appointment of David Cameron as the new Foreign Secretary.
Rishi Sunak's recent cabinet reshuffle has led to the resignation of five experienced junior ministers, collectively contributing over three decades of frontbench experience. Among those stepping down are Nick Gibb, a veteran schools minister with 26 years in the Commons; Jesse Norman from the Department for Transport; Jeremy Quin, the paymaster general; Will Quince, a junior health minister; and George Freeman, the science minister.
These departures create opportunities for Sunak loyalists and newer MPs, but some in the Conservative Party express concern over the loss of institutional knowledge and the perception that departing ministers may be prioritizing their election prospects.
Rachel Maclean, pushed out as housing minister, expressed disappointment, especially as she expected to progress the renters reform bill in the Commons. The housing minister role, situated in the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, has witnessed rapid turnover, with 15 occupants since the Conservatives took power and seven since the 2019 election.
Maclean, in the role for just nine months, will be replaced by Lee Rowley, a former local government minister. The most seasoned minister departing is Nick Gibb, who will stand down as an MP at the next election after a 17-year frontbench career, notably in the schools minister role.
Jesse Norman, with roles in the Treasury, Home Office, and Ministry of Defence, also exits, expressing eagerness to focus on local and national issues. The departures reflect a mix of experienced figures and newer faces stepping aside amid Sunak's reshuffle.
Fabrice Iranzi, Editor in Chief / Lion Herald
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