Blair unveils cabinet after historic third victory

BRITISH Prime Minister Tony Blair unveiled his cabinet last night, changing leadership in defence, health and the House of Commons, and putting his government back in business after a third-term victory that was dampened by a reduced majority.

Mr Blair, who decided to skip a trip to Moscow next week to mark the 60th anniversary of the Allied victory over the Nazis, focused on changes in his new government for most of yesterday. Party leaders held meetings for much of the day.

Geoff Hoon was named leader of the House of Commons, John Reid became Defence Secretary and Patricia Hewitt left her post as Trade Secretary for Health Secretary.