Kemi Badenoch replaces top Tory economic team in shadow Cabinet reshuffle

Kemi Badenoch has taken over the top Tory economic team, replacing Sir Mel Stride as shadow chancellor and appointing Andrew Griffith to take his place. The Conservative leader is making these changes before Parliament returns and the party's conference in October. Claire Coutinho, previously the shadow energy secretary, will replace Griffith as shadow business secretary.

Sir Mel will join other prominent Conservatives on the backbenches after announcing his decision to step down as shadow housing secretary to run for London mayor. Andrew Griffith was selected due to his impressive financial and business background, including his time as a Sky executive and chairman of Just Eat. Badenoch praised Sir Mel's contributions, acknowledging his role in stabilizing the party's economic credibility.

Sir Mel described his tenure as a "great honour" and expressed his gratitude for the Conservative Party's success under his leadership. Tom Tugendhat, a former minister, will now serve as the new shadow business secretary, while Julia Lopez will cover Griffith's position as shadow business secretary until the end of the year. The Conservatives face criticism from their rivals for their past support of Liz Truss and her economic policies.