From Rab to Raab: The Construction of the Office of First Secretary of State

Abstract Through information gained from interviews with key political actors, archival research and close examination of biographical material, this article aims to provide the first detailed account what it means be British First Secretary State. Sometimes regarded simply as a synonym for Deputy Prime Minister, will demonstrated that reality is far more complicated. Not all Secretaries have been Minister’s second-in-command, indeed there many years where post has ceased exist. Yet, at other times, led country, albeit briefly. The main argument made office State only important person holding perceived important, but potential change.