Unlike his predecessor, who was based solely in the Cabinet Office, Falconer’s new job will be a joint role shared between that department and the FDCO. He will attend Cabinet meetings.
One Whitehall official, granted anonymity to discuss the changes, suggested the appointment was a sign that the EU reset would be brought back within the grip of the FCDO and away from the Cabinet Office.
Falconer has a long history in the U.K.’s foreign affairs department, having worked as a diplomat before becoming an MP.
The son of Labour grandee Charlie Falconer, he takes over at a crucial time for discussions between London and Brussels.
Summit prep
Before Starmer’s resignation, a U.K.-EU summit had been scheduled for Wednesday July 22 to round off talks on issues like an agri-food agreement, youth mobility scheme, and emissions trading deal.
Starmer had also planned to use the meeting as a launchpad for a closer relationship with the bloc.