LONDON: UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has undertaken a minor cabinet reshuffle, appointing Grant Shapps as the new defence minister in response to Ben Wallace's resignation from the role of Defence Secretary due to personal reasons. Shapps, previously the Energy Security and Net Zero Secretary in the Cabinet, has been a staunch supporter of Sunak's leadership within the Conservative Party. This appointment marks Shapps' fifth ministerial role in less than a year, having previously held positions as Transport Secretary and briefly as Home Secretary.
Expressing his gratitude, Shapps, 54, tweeted after meeting with Prime Minister Sunak at 10 Downing Street, stating, "I'm deeply honored to assume the role of Defence Secretary under Rishi Sunak. I want to acknowledge Ben Wallace's significant contributions to UK defense and global security during the past four years."
In another development, Claire Coutinho, an ally of Sunak's with Indian heritage, has been selected to take over Shapps' responsibilities in the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. Coutinho, aged 38, hails from London and is an Oxford University graduate. Her parents, migrants of Goan origin, have lent a multicultural dimension to her background. Coutinho's political career began as an aide to Sunak in the Treasury department, during his tenure as Chief Secretary, before he ascended to the role of Chancellor.
Meanwhile, David Johnston, a fellow Conservative Member of Parliament, will succeed Coutinho's former junior ministerial position in the Department for Education. This reshuffle was anticipated following Wallace's announcement of his intention to withdraw from active political engagements a few weeks prior. Wallace's official resignation letter was submitted to Prime Minister Sunak, stating, "After careful contemplation, I have reached the decision to step down from my current responsibilities. Having represented my constituency since 2005, I believe it is time to invest in areas of my life that have been overlooked and explore new opportunities."
Expressing gratitude, Wallace, aged 53, acknowledges Sunak's dedication to defense, highlighting his instrumental role as Chancellor in bolstering defense investments and continued support as Prime Minister. Wallace observes the transformation of the Ministry of Defence during his tenure, remarking on its modernization, improved funding, and renewed confidence. He lauds the UK's Armed Forces and their global recognition, particularly noting the increased respect garnered since the conflict in Ukraine. He emphasizes the necessity of ongoing investment to address the growing instability and insecurity worldwide, a sentiment shared by Prime Minister Sunak.