One of the weaknesses of the Cameron operation has been inadequate attempts to involve the whole parliamentary party in the project. MPs have often felt left out and uninformed about key developments in the party. There has also been a lack of career development of the kind that characterises most modern businesses.
This week David Cameron has taken an important step to address that problem. Alistair Burt MP has been moved from his job at Local Government (his regeneration position will be filled shortly) to a new position inside the Whip's Office. Mr Burt will have responsibility for ensuring that all talents are matched with needs. Mr Burt who was well-regarded by colleagues when he was PPS to Iain Duncan Smith and then Michael Howard also aims to ensure that the party in Westminster works more closely with council leaders, MEPs and other elected Conservatives. He will be writing for ConservativeHome about his new role in the not-too-distant-future.
George Eustice has also returned from his break (which included running a marathon in Hawaii!) and is beginning his work of building stronger relations between the party leadership and third party groups, particularly within the conservative movement. George has also agreed to write for us about what he will be doing.
Two very good appointments.
Congratulations, Alistair. I cannot think of a more-needed role or a better person to take on the challenge!
Posted by: Emily | January 16, 2008 at 12:22
Ed, any chance also of getting someone to write about the role and activities of CCHQ?
We can guess what they are supposed to be doing but it would interesting to people like me who don't know to learn exactly what goes on and who does what.
Posted by: David Belchamber | January 16, 2008 at 12:38
Yes can the Eustice role be clarified?
I guess his article will do that but people inside CCHQ say he is only line manager for two people in "Diversity".
Doesn't sound like the head of external relations job that Fiona Melville previously filled.
Posted by: Rufus | January 16, 2008 at 12:54
Well done, Alistair! This is great news and I look forward to reading your article about what your new position entails.
Posted by: Sally Roberts | January 16, 2008 at 13:34
Alistair Burt is a great parliamentarian, widely respected and a great asset to the Party.
There also needs to be close liaison with parliamentary candidates, particularly in our key marginals, so that after the next general election real talent can be promoted to the frontbench quickly, instead of languishing on the backbenches for years, learning the ropes. I hope candidate liaison is a key part of his role too. This will also ensure that the current crop of frontbenchers are kept on their toes, mindful of the quality of the new intake, which could take their jobs from them.
Posted by: James Harris | January 16, 2008 at 14:40
David and Rufus: i'll do my best to get an article that answers your questions.
Posted by: Editor | January 16, 2008 at 15:06
You didn't mention it, and perhaps I'm wrong, but wasn't Mr. Burt also closely involved with setting up the CSA?
Posted by: seasider | January 16, 2008 at 15:15
Thank you Editor; that would be most welcome and interesting.
Posted by: David Belchamber | January 16, 2008 at 15:36
This is great news - Alistair is certainly the best man for the job.
With regards to the CSA: Alistair was put in charge after the legislation had been passed, and colleagues felt that he had been handed a "poisoned chalis"
Posted by: Anon | January 16, 2008 at 15:51