Grant Shapps looks set to take on the role as the UK’s new Defence Secretary in a ‘surprising’ move by Rishi Sunak.
Shapps was seen getting out of a car in Downing Street after Ben Wallace sent a letter to Mr Sunak confirming his resignation from Government.
He said he wished to pursue new opportunities away from frontline British politics. Mr Shapps’ name only entered the list of possible runners and riders for the job late last night, when the FT reported the rumour.
It is his fifth job in the Cabinet over the past year, after stints at Transport, Home, Business and the Environment.
Mr Shapps visited Ukraine just last week, saying: “What I saw in Kyiv this week was a people resolute in their defiance against Putin’s tyranny and Russia’s aggression”.
Six other names had been in the running to secure the job, including a raft of more junior ministers with more defence experience.
Mr Sunak’s decision to move Mr Shapps from one of the top Government jobs suggests today will see a slightly more wide-reaching reshuffle than expected.
Responding to the move, Boris Johnson said Mr Shapps is an “excellent” pick for the job.
“Sad to see departure of my friend Ben Wallace. A fine Defence Secretary who got so many calls right – especially on Ukraine.
“Grant Shapps is an excellent choice to succeed him.”
