UK Shadow Cabinet 1997

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The UK Shadow Cabinet (see also Official Opposition Shadow Cabinet (UK)) was appointed by Conservative Party leader John Major. Following the party's defeat in the 1997 general election, Major announced his resignation as leader. However, for logistical reasons, a new leader could not be elected for several weeks. In the intervening period, Major appointed an interim Shadow Cabinet.

The Shadow Cabinet was based on Major's final Cabinet. However, as seven Cabinet Ministers had lost their seats in the general election and another had not contested his seat, there were several vacancies. These were largely filled by either Major himself or by the relevant superior minister in the outgoing Cabinet.

The position of Shadow Secretary of State for Scotland was not filled as the Conservatives had lost all their Scottish MPs in the election. Michael Howard and William Hague were given joint responsibility for Constitutional Affairs with the brief to handle the devolution legislation.

[edit] Shadow Cabinet (2 May 1997 - 11 June 1997)