Births on January 24

Daniel Kawczynski, Polish-English accountant and politician

Daniel Robert Kawczynski, born on January 24, 1972, is a prominent British politician representing the Conservative Party. Known for his distinctive name, which in Polish is spelled Kawczyński and pronounced [kaˈft͡ʂɨɲskʲi], he has held various significant roles within the UK Parliament and government, reflecting his extensive experience in both domestic policy and international relations, particularly concerning Central and Eastern Europe.

Key Parliamentary and Governmental Roles

Since his election as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Shrewsbury and Atcham in 2005, Daniel Kawczynski has contributed to the legislative and executive functions of the United Kingdom through a range of impactful positions. These roles have allowed him to influence policy development and parliamentary oversight across several key areas.

• Parliamentary Private Secretary (PPS) at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra): In this capacity, Mr. Kawczynski served as a vital link between Defra ministers and Conservative backbench Members of Parliament. A PPS, an unpaid role, acts as a sounding board for ministers and helps to convey the mood and concerns of the parliamentary party, facilitating communication and understanding within the government machinery. Defra is responsible for policies on environmental protection, food production, agriculture, fisheries, and rural communities across England.
• Parliamentary Aide to Former Welsh Secretary David Jones: As a parliamentary aide, Daniel Kawczynski provided direct support and assistance to the then Secretary of State for Wales, David Jones. This role typically involves assisting with parliamentary duties, conducting research, preparing briefings, and acting as a conduit between the Secretary of State and other Members of Parliament or external stakeholders, thereby supporting the effective governance of Welsh affairs within the UK government.
• Member of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee: Participation in this influential House of Commons select committee allowed Mr. Kawczynski to scrutinize the expenditure, administration, and policy of the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). The Foreign Affairs Committee plays a critical role in holding the government to account on its foreign policy decisions, conducting inquiries into international events, global challenges, and diplomatic strategies, and publishing reports with recommendations to Parliament and the government.

Special Advisor to Prime Minister David Cameron on Central and Eastern Europe

A particularly notable aspect of Daniel Kawczynski's service was his appointment as a Special Advisor to Prime Minister David Cameron. This significant advisory role encompassed two distinct but related areas, underscoring his unique background and insights into the region:

Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) Relations:

In this capacity, Mr. Kawczynski advised the Prime Minister on geopolitical developments, diplomatic strategies, and economic opportunities concerning the nations of Central and Eastern Europe. This period, following the significant 2004 enlargement of the European Union which welcomed countries like Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic, marked a crucial time for strengthening bilateral ties and understanding the evolving political and economic landscapes in the region. His advice helped shape the UK's approach to countries that were increasingly vital partners in trade, security, and multilateral cooperation.

Central and Eastern Europeans Living in the United Kingdom:

His advisory mandate also extended to addressing the specific needs, contributions, and challenges faced by communities from Central and Eastern Europe residing within the United Kingdom. This focus was especially pertinent given the substantial increase in migration from these countries after their EU accession. Mr. Kawczynski's role involved ensuring that the voices and concerns of these communities, who have made significant economic and social contributions to the UK, were understood and represented at the highest levels of government, thereby informing policies related to integration, employment, and social welfare.

Frequently Asked Questions about Daniel Kawczynski

• What is Daniel Kawczynski's political affiliation?
  Daniel Kawczynski is a long-standing member of the British Conservative Party.
• Which parliamentary constituency does Daniel Kawczynski represent?
  He has served as the Member of Parliament for Shrewsbury and Atcham since his initial election in 2005.
• What significant advisory role did Daniel Kawczynski hold under Prime Minister David Cameron?
  He served as a Special Advisor to Prime Minister David Cameron, focusing specifically on relations with Central and Eastern European countries and addressing issues pertinent to Central and Eastern European communities living in the United Kingdom.