Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Two years on, Team cameron is no more

 

Oliver Wright
Thursday 23 August 2012 11:56 EDT
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

They were the close-knit group of backroom colleagues who propelled Mr Cameron into Downing Street – sharing junk food, long-distance train trips and the frustration of opposition.

But now, two years into Government, Team Cameron is effectively no more. First to go was Andy Coulson, brought down by the phone hacking allegations at the News of the World. Then James O'Shaughnessy, Cameron's chief policy advisor, left to work in the private sector. He was followed by Steve Hilton, who moved away to California. Now Gabby Bertin – officially press secretary but also a close confidante – is expecting a baby in January but plans to return to Downing Street in time for next year's Conservative Party Conference.

The departure leaves Mr Cameron's chief of staff Ed Llewelyn, gatekeeper Kate Fall and director of operations Liz Sugg, who recently returned after three months off. Ms Bertin is expected to be temporarily replaced by a special adviser working for another Cabinet minister.

In the meantime, Mr Cameron will have to make do with a new set of aides – who won't know what pasty he likes on the last train home from Doncaster.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in