MoD Ministerial appointments finalised
The Prime Minister has retained Michael Fallon as Defence Secretary and Philip Dunne as Minister of State for Defence Equipment, Technology and Support and Julian Brazier and appoints Penny Mordaunt, Mark Lancaster and Earl Howe to roles in the Ministry of Defence.
Rejoining the Ministry of Defence, Earl Howe (right), Minister of State and Lords Spokesman on Defence, said: "Having worked at the Ministry of Defence before, it is a great privilege to return as Minister of State and House of Lord’s spokesman on Defence. I look forward to working with my military and civilian colleagues once again in the months ahead, ensuring that our both our serving personnel and veterans are fully recognised for the enormous contribution they have made to the country.
"I recognise the hard work of my predecessor Lord Astor and I am committed to carrying on his impressive record in delivering the government’s defence agenda in the House of Lords."
Above: Julian Brazier, Minister for Reserves.
Returning to the Department, Minister for Reserves, Julian Brazier said: "It is a great privilege to return to the Ministry of Defence and to continue the important work already under way to bolster the Reserve Forces. Each reservist is truly twice the citizen and it’s important to recognise that there are reserves deployed on military operations across the world right now – from tackling ISIL in Iraq, helping to eradicate Ebola in Sierra Leone, and mentoring at the Officer Academy in Kabul.
"Much progress has been made towards reinvigorating the reserves and meeting our deliberately challenging recruitment targets. I know there is more to be done, and I am determined that we recruit the best possible talent to deliver the integrated and agile future force of regulars and reserves needed to counter the wide range of threats we face."
Above: Mark Lancaster, Minister for Defence Personnel, Welfare and Veterans.
Joining the Department, Minister for Defence Personnel, Welfare and Veterans Mark Lancaster TD MP said: "I am honoured to have been appointed to the Ministry of Defence by the Prime Minister. I will work to make sure the nation continues to recognise and reward both serving personnel and the thousands of veterans who have served their country with such distinction.
"I have seen first-hand the impressive and highly professional job our people do to help keep Britain safe. I am grateful to my predecessor Anna Soubry for her hard work and dedication and will take forward her efforts to ensure our brave Armed Forces and their families are properly supported and provided for including through the Armed Forces Covenant, which I will champion."
