In British parliamentary practice, the Official Loyal Opposition Shadow Cabinet (usually known simply as 'The Shadow Cabinet') is a group of members from Her Majesty's Loyal Opposition who scrutinise their corresponding office holders in government, and develop alternative policies.1 Since 1997, the Conservative Party has been Her Majesty's Loyal Opposition, and its leadership therefore forms the current Shadow Cabinet.2
Not every Conservative frontbench spokesperson is a member of the Shadow Cabinet, which is composed of the most senior spokespersons only (usually around 20).3
The Leader of the Opposition and the Opposition Chief Whip are the only members of the opposition front bench to draw a salary in addition to their salaries as members of the parliament.