Claire Coutinho, 38, becomes the second Goan-origin minister after Home Secretary Suella Braverman in the Sunak Cabinet
The United Kingdom’s Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, has introduced a new member to his Cabinet, Claire Coutinho, in a recent reshuffle. This appointment makes her the second minister of Goan-origin in the Sunak Cabinet, with Home Secretary Suella Braverman being the first, NDTV reported.
Claire Coutinho, 38, who has been a trusted aide to Prime Minister Sunak, has assumed the role of Energy Security and Net Zero Secretary, a significant responsibility given the rising energy costs in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. In this capacity, she has pledged to prioritize the safeguarding of energy security and reducing energy bills for families facing the challenges of a cost-of-living crisis.
Coutinho’s appointment follows her predecessor Grant Shapps’ promotion to Defence Secretary, following the resignation of Ben Wallace. This marks her first Cabinet role, and she expressed her enthusiasm on Twitter, saying, “I am delighted to have been appointed Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero. I will work with the Prime Minister to safeguard our energy security, reduce bills for families, and build cleaner, cheaper, homegrown energy.”
Born in the UK, Claire Coutinho shares a background with Prime Minister Sunak, as both grew up in families with connections to the National Health Service (NHS) before transitioning to careers in finance and politics. She holds a Master’s degree in Maths and Philosophy from Oxford University and was elected as a Member of Parliament for East Surrey in 2019, promising to serve her constituents diligently.
Claire Coutinho’s appointment to the Cabinet underscores her rising prominence in British politics and her commitment to addressing pressing issues such as energy security and the cost of living
In her mission statement as a Tory MP, Coutinho emphasized her commitment to serving the people, drawing inspiration from her parents, who worked as GPs in the NHS. Her appointment as the youngest member of the Cabinet positions her as a significant figure in Conservative politics, both in the present and future.
Claire Coutinho’s career trajectory saw her start at Merrill Lynch before transitioning to social justice policy. She worked on a wide range of issues, including education, financial inclusion, and community regeneration. Her experience includes serving as a Special Adviser in the UK Treasury department and later as an aide to Rishi Sunak during his roles as Chief Secretary to the Treasury and Chancellor of the Exchequer.
Coutinho’s support for Prime Minister Sunak during his leadership bid earned her a junior ministerial post in the Department for Education. She expressed her gratitude to her team when leaving her previous position as Minister for Children, Families, and Wellbeing, highlighting her achievements in childcare expansion, the Freedom of Speech Act, and driving reforms in various areas related to children and families.
Claire Coutinho’s appointment to the Cabinet underscores her rising prominence in British politics and her commitment to addressing pressing issues such as energy security and the cost of living.
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