Key facts at a glance
Below is a concise overview of core, verifiable details about David Cameron’s public life and current standing.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | David William Donald Cameron | Official biographies |
| Date of birth | 9 October 1966 | Public records |
| Served as Prime Minister | 11 May 2010 to 13 July 2016 | UK government history |
| Political party | Conservative Party | Party records |
| Constituency (as PM) | Witney (Oxfordshire) | UK Parliament records |
| Current public role | Former MP; active in philanthropy and public commentary | Charity filings and recent interviews |
Path to leadership
Born in London and educated at Eton College and Brasenose College, Oxford, Cameron entered Parliament in 2001 for Witney. He progressed through front‑bench roles, became Conservative leader in 2005, and led the party into the 2010 general election. After no party secured an overall majority, the Conservatives formed a coalition with the Liberal Democrats, making Cameron Prime Minister at age 43.
2010 coalition agreement
The 2010 coalition dealt with a fragile fiscal position and calls for deficit reduction. Policy moves included an austerity programme, welfare reform, and a referendum on electoral reform (Alternative Vote) in 2011, which was rejected. The coalition lasted until 2015, when the Conservatives won a small majority and governed alone.
Key policy themes during Cameron’s premiership
- Deficit reduction through spending cuts and tax measures.
- Welfare reform, including changes to benefits and work requirements.
- Same‑sex marriage legislation passed in 2013.
- Devolution to Scotland and Wales, and significant constitutional negotiations.
- Brexit referendum: Cameron called the 2016 EU membership vote and advocated remain; the UK voted to leave.
Constitutional events and decisions
Cameron’s tenure included several defining moments. The 2014 Scottish independence referendum resulted in a vote to stay, influencing further devolution. The 2016 EU referendum concluded with a Leave vote, leading to his resignation the following day. His leadership during these events shaped much of the UK’s subsequent political trajectory.
Post‑premiership activities
After leaving office, Cameron stepped back from frontline politics and resigned as MP in 2016. He has since engaged in philanthropy, advised investment firms, and taken on non‑executive roles in public and private organisations. He has also provided commentary on UK and international politics in interviews and lectures, while generally avoiding day‑to‑day partisan activity.
Public perception and legacy
Views of Cameron remain mixed. Supporters highlight fiscal consolidation, social reforms such as same‑sex marriage, and efforts to modernise the Conservatives. Critics focus on austerity’s impact on public services, decisions around Brexit, and perceived political U‑turns. Assessments of his premiership continue to evolve in historical accounts and contemporary analysis.
Current status and relevance
As of the present, Cameron is not holding elected office or a ministerial role. He remains a prominent former leader whose earlier decisions—particularly the referendum—continue to influence UK politics. He appears periodically in media and charitable endeavours, and his statements on policy and public affairs are noted for their context and reach.
Biography and quick reference
- Born: 9 October 1966
- Prime Minister: 11 May 2010 – 13 July 2016
- Party: Conservative
- Notable milestones: Coalition government (2010–2015), majority government (2015–2016), Brexit referendum (2016)
- Post‑politics: Charity work, business advisory roles, public commentary
Status clarification
News about David Cameron often refers to his ongoing public commentary or historical assessments of his premiership. He is not currently a holder of public office, nor is he actively campaigning. When new appearances or statements occur, they are typically in the context of interviews, memoirs, or institutional roles rather than immediate political events.