UK: Grant Shapps appointed new defence secretary after Ben Wallace resigns

Energy SecretaryGrant Shapps was on Thursday named as the UK's new defence secretary, replacing the long-serving Ben Wallace, who resigned from the position.Shapps is known forsupporting Ukraine in its ongoing warsince Russia's invasion last year.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's office announced the appointment of Shapps, 54, who currently serves as energy security and net zero secretary, after he was seen arriving at number 10 Downing Street.

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The United Kingdom's former Defence Secretary Ben Wallacestepped down from his position on Thursday (August 31).

Wallace, who had last month announced that he would resign in the subsequent UK government cabinet reshuffle, was appreciated by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in a letter.

Sunak praised the "dedication and skill" Wallace brought to the role that saw him take a leading role in Western allies' support for Ukraine against Russia.

"You have served our country with distinction," Sunak wrote, adding that he had seen "before others did what Vladimir Putin's true intentions in Ukraine were".

"Your determination to get Kyiv weaponry before the Russians attacked had a material effect on the ability of the Ukrainians to thwart the invasion."

Meanwhile, education minister Claire Coutinho got promoted to the cabinet as energy and net zero secretary, replacing Shapps.

Similarly,Tory MP David Johnston was appointed as the parliamentary under secretary of state at the Department for Education, replacingClaire Coutinho after her promotionin the mini reshuffle.

(With inputs from agencies)

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