Conservative conference: Cameron gives Duncan Smith role to 'mend broken society'

8 October 2009 Ravi Chandiramani Early Years Education Social Care

Iain Duncan Smith will be given responsibility in a Conservative government for "bringing together all our work to help mend the broken society," Tory leader David Cameron has said.

Cameron's speech to the party conference did not provide details of what would be the precise remit of Duncan Smith, who is a former party leader and heads the Centre for Social Justice think tank.

Cameron referenced Michael Gove, the shadow secretary of state for children, schools and families, only in relation to the challenge of reforming state education.

The speech will heighten expectation that Gove might head a standalone education department in government.

Cameron reiterated the Conservatives' commitment to retain Sure Start, recruit more health visitors and reward commitment between couples "by recognising marriage and civil partnerships in the tax system and abolishing the couple penalty in the benefits system".

Register Now to Continue Reading

Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's Included