Boris Johnson named Foreign Secretary in Theresa May's new Cabinet

The former Mayor of London will serve in Theresa May's Cabinet

Boris Johnson has been appointed as Britain’s Foreign Secretary, it has been announced.

The former Mayor of London will represent Britain abroad on the world stage.

He will also take a key role in Brexit negotiations once so-called Article 50 has been triggered to begin the process of leaving the European Union.

Other responsibilities include overal executive authority of Britain's diplomatic missions and a seat at the table at high-level summits.

Mr Johnson is Theresa May’s second appointment as Prime Minister; her first was that Philip Hammond is Chancellor of the Exchequer.

The former Mayor Mr Johnson was first elected to Mayor of London in 2008, and was reelected to the post in 2012, when he stepped down to once again become an MP.

Long touted as a successor to David Cameron, Mr Johnson sensationally announced that he would not stand for leader at the last minute before deadlines closed.

Mr Johnson was highly active during the European Union referendum campaign, appearing on television more than almost any other politician.

Though popular with the Conservative membership, his leadership bid was torpedoed by then Justice Secretary Michael Gove, who raised questioned about his suitability as leader.

Having called journalists to a press conference where he was expected to announce his bid, he said he would in fact not stand.

He backed Brexit at the last minute before the campaign, alienating his former university friend David Cameron, who backed Remain.

Ms May is unveiling her first Cabinet after being appointed Prime Minister by Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace earlier this evening.

She has unveiled the first tranche of her front bench this evening, with the rest due to be announced over the next few days.

The former Home Secretary has pledged to create a fairer economy and create a government that works in the interests of "ordinary people" rather than the "privileged few".