Justine Greening, English accountant and politician, Secretary of State for International Development

Justine Greening, born on 30 April 1969, is a prominent British former politician who dedicated many years to public service, primarily as a Member of Parliament for the Conservative Party. Her career saw her hold significant ministerial portfolios across various departments, reflecting her diverse policy interests and capabilities within the UK government.

Early Career and Rise Through the Ranks

Greening first entered the House of Commons as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Putney, a constituency in South West London, in the 2005 general election. Her journey through the parliamentary ranks was marked by a steady progression, eventually leading her to key ministerial positions. Before reaching Cabinet level, she served in important financial capacities within the government, demonstrating her acumen in economic affairs.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister David Cameron, Greening took on significant responsibilities, beginning with her role as Economic Secretary to the Treasury. This position placed her at the heart of the nation's financial policymaking, dealing with fiscal strategy and economic management. Following this, she was appointed Secretary of State for Transport, overseeing the country's vast and complex transport infrastructure and policy, from roads and railways to aviation. Her dedication and experience in these roles paved the way for further advancement.

Cabinet Roles: From International Development to Education

In September 2012, Greening’s portfolio expanded as she was appointed Secretary of State for International Development. In this capacity, she was responsible for the UK's global aid budget and its efforts to alleviate poverty, promote sustainable development, and respond to humanitarian crises around the world. This role underscored her commitment to international cooperation and humanitarian causes.

A pivotal period in her career came with the formation of Theresa May's government. From 14 July 2016 to 8 January 2018, Justine Greening served concurrently as Secretary of State for Education and Minister for Women and Equalities. In these roles, she was tasked with overseeing the entire education system, from early years to higher education, including schools, colleges, and universities, as well as championing equality and diversity across society. Her tenure saw various policy initiatives aimed at improving educational standards and promoting social mobility.

However, her time as Education Secretary concluded in January 2018 when she resigned during a significant Cabinet reshuffle initiated by Prime Minister May. This decision marked a turning point in her governmental career.

Departure from Government and the Conservative Party

The final chapter of Justine Greening's political career as a Conservative MP unfolded in September 2019. On 3 September, she publicly announced her decision not to stand as a Conservative candidate in the upcoming general election. This declaration signaled her intention to step back from party politics at a crucial time for the nation, as the UK grappled with the complexities of Brexit.

Later the same day, a dramatic turn of events saw her become one of 21 Conservative MPs who had the whip withdrawn. This severe political sanction occurred after she, along with her colleagues, voted against the government on a critical issue – widely understood to be related to parliamentary control over the Brexit process, specifically preventing a no-deal departure. Having the whip withdrawn effectively means that an MP is suspended from their parliamentary party, losing the right to sit and vote with the party in the House of Commons. Consequently, Greening served as an independent MP until Parliament was dissolved for the December 2019 general election, marking the end of her parliamentary service.

Frequently Asked Questions About Justine Greening

When was Justine Greening born?
Justine Greening was born on 30 April 1969.
Which constituency did she represent?
She served as the Member of Parliament for Putney, a constituency in South West London, from 2005 to 2019.
What were her key Cabinet roles?
Her major Cabinet roles included Economic Secretary to the Treasury, Secretary of State for Transport, Secretary of State for International Development, and Secretary of State for Education (where she also served as Minister for Women and Equalities).
Why did she resign as Education Secretary?
She resigned as Education Secretary during a Cabinet reshuffle initiated by Prime Minister Theresa May in January 2018, having declined a move to the Department for Work and Pensions.
Why did Justine Greening leave the Conservative Party?
While she initially announced she would not stand as a Conservative in the next general election, she subsequently had the whip withdrawn on 3 September 2019, after voting against the government on a crucial parliamentary motion (related to Brexit), effectively ending her affiliation with the party in Parliament. She then sat as an independent MP.
What does it mean to "have the whip withdrawn"?
In British politics, "having the whip withdrawn" is a serious disciplinary measure where an MP is suspended from their parliamentary party. They lose the right to sit and vote with their party in the House of Commons, and effectively become an independent, but they remain an MP. It signifies a significant breach of party discipline.