The new Health Secretary faces myriad formidable challenges Mr Javid is a serious-minded individual who understands the workings of Whitehall. But he can't afford a moment's relaxation 27 June 2021 • 9:30pm In bringing Sajid Javid back into the Cabinet as Health Secretary, the Prime Minister has restored to public office a politician with extensive experience of government. He served as Chancellor and Home Secretary following spells in the culture and housing departments. However, he never stayed long enough in any of these roles to demonstrate whether his promise could be translated into achievement. His tenure as Chancellor lasted just a few months before he was ousted following a power struggle with Dominic Cummings, the Prime Minister’s erstwhile chief adviser and now chief tormentor. The latter was unable to resist taking further pot-shots at Mr Javid, suggesting his appointment was the result of lobbying by the Prime Minister’s wife who worked for him as an adviser.