The MP for Birmingham Ladywood has hit the headlines during her political career over a series of issues ranging from the ethics of topless models to questioning President Clinton's morals.

In 1996, she was reunited with her son Toby whom she gave up for adoption during her first marriage.

Clare Short enjoyed many frontbench roles in opposition and was the party's spokeswoman on overseas development from 1996 to 1997.

The Department for International Development was created after Labour's general election victory in 1997 to promote sustainable development and the elimination of poverty in advancing countries.