Caroline Spelman, English politician, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

Dame Caroline Alice Spelman, born Caroline Alice Cormack on May 4, 1958, is a distinguished British politician affiliated with the Conservative Party. Her career is marked by significant service in the House of Commons and a pivotal role within a coalition government, demonstrating her long-standing commitment to public life in the United Kingdom.

Parliamentary Journey and Representation

Dame Caroline embarked on her parliamentary career in 1997 when she was successfully elected as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Meriden. This constituency, nestled in the heart of the West Midlands, became her political home for an impressive 22 years. Throughout her tenure, which spanned over two decades until 2019, she was a diligent representative for her constituents, contributing to debates and legislation at the national level while advocating for local interests.

Key Ministerial Role and Cabinet Service

From May 2010 to September 2012, Dame Caroline held a significant cabinet position as the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). This crucial portfolio placed her at the forefront of policy-making concerning environmental protection, agricultural practices, food standards, and rural development across the UK. Her appointment came at a notable time in British politics, as she served within the Conservative-Liberal Democrat coalition government led by then Prime Minister David Cameron, playing a key role in shaping the government's agenda on these vital issues.

Sworn as a Privy Counsellor

Further underscoring her standing and influence within the British political establishment, Dame Caroline was sworn in as a Privy Counsellor on May 13, 2010, shortly after assuming her cabinet responsibilities. Membership of the Privy Council is a prestigious honour, bestowing the title "The Right Honourable" upon its members and signifying their readiness to formally advise the Sovereign on matters of state. This ancient body plays a significant, albeit often ceremonial, role in the constitutional framework of the UK.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Dame Caroline Alice Spelman?

Dame Caroline Alice Spelman (née Cormack) is a British Conservative Party politician who served as a Member of Parliament for Meriden and as Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

When was she born?

She was born on May 4, 1958.

Which constituency did she represent?

Dame Caroline represented the Meriden constituency in the West Midlands from 1997 to 2019.

What significant cabinet role did she hold?

She served as the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) from May 2010 to September 2012 in David Cameron's coalition government.

What does it mean to be a Privy Counsellor?

Being sworn as a Privy Counsellor is an honour that means an individual becomes a formal advisor to the British Sovereign, entitling them to the prefix "The Right Honourable" and binding them to an oath of secrecy. It is typically granted to senior politicians, judges, and church figures.

When was she sworn as a Privy Counsellor?

She was sworn as a Privy Counsellor on May 13, 2010.

What is the significance of the title 'Dame'?

The title 'Dame' is the female equivalent of 'Sir' and indicates that Caroline Spelman has been appointed to a high honour within the British honours system, typically for significant public service.