Darling as finance minister

Alistair Darling has been appointed as Britain's finance minister to replace Gordon Brown who is now prime minister, a move that signals continuity in British economic policy.
Darling, 53, had been a hot favourite to take the helm at the Treasury and as a trusted Brown ally his appointment is unlikely to cause any waves in financial markets.
"Britain faces huge challenges in the years ahead and we will meet these because we have a strong economy built by Gordon Brown over many years. I intend to maintain that economic strength and stability," he said. Economists welcomed the appointment.
Darling, 53, held a variety of jobs in Tony Blair's cabinet, including Chief Secretary to the Treasury and, most recently, Trade and Industry Secretary.