In a notable reshuffle of the Conservative shadow cabinet, James Cleverly has been appointed Shadow Secretary of State for Housing. This move, part of Kemi Badenoch’s efforts to refresh her frontbench team, places a seasoned and high-profile figure at the heart of the party’s housing policy platform, at a time when the sector is crying out for clarity and direction.
The role of Shadow Housing Secretary is more than just symbolic. While not a minister in government, Cleverly will be responsible for holding Labour’s Angela Rayner to account on housing and planning policy, while also shaping the Conservative Party’s alternative vision for tackling the UK’s housing crisis. His remit includes scrutinising legislation, engaging with industry stakeholders, and helping to craft the policies that could define the party’s next general election manifesto.
Cleverly is no stranger to high office. A former Foreign Secretary and long-time Conservative frontbencher, he brings political weight and media savviness to the role. He recently returned to the spotlight after a brief stint on the backbenches, having lost out to Badenoch in the final stages of the party’s leadership contest. Known for his pragmatic tone and calls for unity, Cleverly has warned against the party drifting into populism and has instead advocated for a more grounded, solutions-focused approach.
For housebuilders, developers, and estate agents, his appointment could signal a renewed focus on the structural issues facing the sector. Planning reform, housing delivery targets, and support for first-time buyers are all likely to be high on his agenda. His predecessor, Kevin Hollinrake, was well-regarded for his understanding of the property market, and Cleverly will be expected to maintain that level of engagement while bringing a more strategic, big-picture perspective to the role.
With Labour currently in government and Angela Rayner leading on housing, the political debate around development, affordability, and planning is set to intensify. Cleverly’s return to the housing brief ensures that the opposition will have a strong voice in that conversation, one that the industry will be watching closely.
