Baroness Amos gets Australia job

Lady Amos was secretary of state for International Development

Baroness Valerie Amos is to become Britain's next High Commissioner to Australia, the Foreign Office has said.

Lady Amos, who was Britain's first black female Cabinet minister, will take over from another ex-Cabinet minister, Helen Liddell, in October.

The Labour peer stepped down as leader of the House of Lords when Gordon Brown became prime minister. She was also the International Development secretary.

Mr Brown said she would bring "energy, flair and experience" to the role.

The prime minister said: "The relationship between the UK and Australia is unique and Prime Minister (Kevin) Rudd is an exceptional friend.

"Our shared history, culture and interests make this a powerful and important partnership.

"Helen Liddell has done an excellent job and I have no doubt Valerie Amos will build on her work and continue our strong partnership with Australia."

The Foreign Office said Ms Liddell had served her full four-year term in the role.