Thaindian News

London, May 12 (IANS) Promising a “proper and full coalition government”, Conservative leader David Cameron moved into No. 10 Downing Street as Britain’s new prime minister, shortly after Labour’s Gordon Brown bid an emotional farewell, signalling an end to 13 years of his party rule.
Cameron, one of Britain’s youngest prime ministers, got the top job after his party managed to seal a deal with the Liberal Democrats who held the key to government formation after voters threw up the country’s first hung parliament since 1974. Leader of the Liberal Democrats Nick Clegg would be Cameron’s deputy.

A beaming Cameron, 43, arrived at his new home Tuesday evening with his pregnant wife Samantha and he asked voters no longer to ask “just what you are owed, but what can I give”.

He said the nation faced “deep and pressing problems”, but pledged a “proper and full coalition” government with the Liberal Democrats that would focus on “rebuilding family, rebuilding community and above all rebuilding responsibility in our country”.

He promised that he and Clegg would “put aside party differences and work hard for the common good and the national interest”, Daily Mail reported.

US President Barack Obama was one of the first to congratulate Cameron, who is Britain’s youngest prime minister in 200 years.

The new Conservative-Liberal Democrat alliance, resulting from last week’s general election, is Britain’s first coalition government since World War II.

Gordon Brown spoke from a lectern at 10 Downing Street, with wife Sarah by his side, before stepping down from office. He had served as prime minister for less than three years.

“I have always strived to serve, to do my best in the interests of Britain,” said Brown in a voice cracking with emotion.

He also paid tribute to his wife’s “unwavering support and her love” and to his two sons “for the love they bring to our lives”.

Following the bitterly contested election, the Tories came out with 306 seats - 20 short of an overall majority. The Liberal Democrats performed less than expected and bagged 57 seats. Labour got 258 seats.

Tuesday had begun with speculation that Liberal Democrats may strike a deal with Labour to form a minority government after Gordon Brown dramatically announced Monday to step down.

As the day wore on, it became increasingly clear that things were not moving in favour of Labour.

At 7.20 p.m., Brown announced his resignation, bringing down the curtains on days of political uncertainty and tortuous talks.