1 year ago
73
ARTICLE AD BOX
By Sam Francis
Political reporter, BBC News
Grant Shapps has been announced as defence secretary, replacing Ben Wallace who has resigned after four years in the role.
It is Mr Shapps' fifth cabinet job in less than a year, including roles as energy secretary, transport secretary and, briefly, home secretary.
Mr Shapps campaigned to replace Boris Johnson as prime minister in 2022 but dropped out to support Rishi Sunak.
Ben Wallace is standing down as an MP at the next election.
Mr Wallace, who served as defence secretary under three prime minister, said he was stepping down "to invest in the parts of life that I have neglected, and to explore new opportunities".
In his resignation statement Mr Wallace said his military and political careers has come at "a personal toll to me and my family".
Children's Minister Claire Coutinho is expected to replace Mr Shapps as Energy Security and Net Zero Secretary, the BBC understands.
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