Gavin Williamson replaces Fallon as UK defence secretary

Image
Press Trust of India London
Last Updated : Nov 02 2017 | 4:32 PM IST
Gavin Williamson was today appointed as Britain's new defence minister to replace Michael Fallon who resigned over allegations of inappropriate sexual behaviour.
Fallon, 65, stepped down as UK defence secretary saying his conduct may have fallen below the high standards expected amid revelations that he had made unwanted advances towards a journalist years ago.
Prime Minister Theresa May promoted Williamson, her trusted chief whip, to the job of defence secretary to fill the role.
The 41-year-old Williamson, the MP for South Staffordshire, has been responsible for exerting discipline over the prime ministers fractious parliamentary party since last year.
Williamson was closely involved in negotiating the confidence and supply deal with the Democratic Unionist party that secured the parliamentary support May needed to govern in the aftermath of June's general election.
It was Williamson and Gavin Barwell, Mays chief of staff, who were called in by the prime minister last week as she discussed how to handle the growing sex harassment scandal.

Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content

*Subscribe to Business Standard digital and get complimentary access to The New York Times

Smart Quarterly

₹900

3 Months

₹300/Month

SAVE 25%

Smart Essential

₹2,700

1 Year

₹225/Month

SAVE 46%
*Complimentary New York Times access for the 2nd year will be given after 12 months

Super Saver

₹3,900

2 Years

₹162/Month

Subscribe

Renews automatically, cancel anytime

Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans

Exclusive premium stories online

  • Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors

Complimentary Access to The New York Times

  • News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic

Business Standard Epaper

  • Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share

Curated Newsletters

  • Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox

Market Analysis & Investment Insights

  • In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor

Archives

  • Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997

Ad-free Reading

  • Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements

Seamless Access Across All Devices

  • Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app

More From This Section

First Published: Nov 02 2017 | 4:32 PM IST

Next Story