Dominic Raab, English lawyer and politician

Dominic Rennie Raab, born on February 25, 1974, is a prominent figure in British politics, currently holding the significant roles of Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Secretary of State for Justice, and Lord Chancellor, positions he has held since 2021. An influential member of the Conservative Party, he has served as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Esher and Walton in Surrey since his initial election in 2010, representing a key constituency in the Home Counties. His career has been marked by several high-profile ministerial appointments, including his tenure as Brexit Secretary in 2018, and later as First Secretary of State and Foreign Secretary from 2019 to 2021.

The Journey Begins: Early Life and Academic Foundations

Born in Buckinghamshire, a county renowned for its picturesque landscapes and commuter-belt towns, Dominic Raab's foundational education began at Dr Challoner's Grammar School. His academic pursuits then led him to the esteemed halls of the University of Oxford, where he read Law at Lady Margaret Hall. Demonstrating a keen intellect and a commitment to his studies, he furthered his legal scholarship by pursuing a master's degree at Jesus College, Cambridge – an impressive academic pedigree from two of the world's leading universities. This rigorous education laid the groundwork for a career that would eventually lead him to the highest echelons of government.

From Law to Westminster: A Political Ascent

Raab's professional journey commenced in the demanding world of commercial law, where he worked as a lawyer at Linklaters, one of the world's most prestigious "Magic Circle" law firms in London. This experience provided him with invaluable insights into international legal frameworks and complex negotiations. Later, he transitioned into public service, working at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), an institution at the heart of the UK's diplomatic efforts, and subsequently served as a political aide. These roles offered him a crucial apprenticeship in government operations and policy development. His ambition to serve in elected office was realised in the 2010 general election, a pivotal moment for the Conservative Party which saw them enter government in a coalition. Raab successfully secured the parliamentary seat for Esher and Walton, beginning his career as an MP.

His early years in Parliament saw him take on various responsibilities. From 2015 to 2016, he served as the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Civil Liberties and Human Rights, a role that underscored his legal background. Following Theresa May's elevation to Prime Minister, Raab initially returned to the backbenches, a common phase in political careers, but he was soon brought back into government after the 2017 general election as Minister of State for Courts and Justice. The subsequent 2018 cabinet reshuffle saw him moved to the portfolio of Minister of State for Housing and Planning, demonstrating his adaptability across different government departments.

Navigating Brexit: A Defining Chapter

Dominic Raab's career took a significant turn in 2018 when he was promoted to the immensely challenging and high-profile position of Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union – often simply referred to as Brexit Secretary. This appointment followed the resignation of David Davis, who had stepped down amidst disagreements over the direction of Brexit negotiations. Raab inherited the arduous task of overseeing Britain's departure from the European Union, a period of intense political debate and national uncertainty. Just two weeks into the role, Prime Minister Theresa May deputised him to focus primarily on domestic preparations for Brexit, rather than leading the frontline negotiations in Brussels herself. This internal shift highlighted the complex and often fragmented nature of the UK's approach to its departure.

However, Raab's tenure as Brexit Secretary proved to be short-lived. Four months after his appointment, in November 2018, he resigned from the cabinet in staunch opposition to Prime Minister May's draft Brexit withdrawal agreement. His resignation, along with several others, sent shockwaves through Westminster and further destabilised May's government, reflecting the deep divisions within the Conservative Party and across the political spectrum regarding the terms of Britain's exit.

From Leadership Bid to Deputy Prime Minister

Following Theresa May's resignation as Conservative Party leader and Prime Minister in 2019, Dominic Raab put himself forward as a candidate to succeed her in the leadership contest. While he garnered support, he was ultimately eliminated in the second ballot of Conservative MPs, paving the way for Boris Johnson's victory. Upon Johnson's appointment as Prime Minister, Raab was brought back into a senior cabinet role, being named First Secretary of State – a de facto deputy role – and Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs. This placed him at the helm of the UK's global diplomatic efforts, a crucial position in a post-Brexit landscape.

In 2020, a significant restructuring saw the Department for International Development (DfID) merged with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, creating a new, more powerful entity. Consequently, Raab's post was retitled Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, overseeing both diplomacy and international aid. His influence continued to grow, culminating in the 2021 cabinet reshuffle. In a testament to his standing within the government, he was appointed to his current, highly influential positions: Deputy Prime Minister, Secretary of State for Justice, and Lord Chancellor. These roles underscore his critical involvement in the most pressing issues facing the nation, from the day-to-day administration of justice to supporting the Prime Minister at the heart of government.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dominic Raab

Who is Dominic Raab?
Dominic Raab is a British politician and a prominent member of the Conservative Party. He currently serves in several high-ranking government positions in the United Kingdom.
What are Dominic Raab's current government roles?
Since 2021, Dominic Raab has served as the Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Secretary of State for Justice, and Lord Chancellor.
When did Dominic Raab become an MP?
He was first elected as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Esher and Walton in the 2010 general election.
What was Dominic Raab's role in Brexit?
Dominic Raab served as the Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union (Brexit Secretary) in 2018, overseeing domestic preparations for the UK's departure. He famously resigned from this post in opposition to Prime Minister Theresa May's draft Brexit withdrawal agreement.
Which political party does Dominic Raab belong to?
He is a long-standing member of the Conservative Party.
Where did Dominic Raab study?
He studied law at Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford, and pursued a master's degree at Jesus College, Cambridge.