Following the resignation of Sir Michael Fallon, Chief Whip Gavin Williamson has been appointed the new Defence Secretary by Prime Minister Theresa May.
Sir Michael Fallon resigned on Wednesday, stating that his behaviour had “fallen short” of the standards expected by the UK military.
A number of allegations have been raised about the conduct of MPs over the last few days, including allegations about Sir Michael’s conduct in the past.
Sir Michael had apologised earlier this week after it emerged he had been reprimanded by journalist, Julia Hartley-Brewer, for repeatedly placing his hand on her knee during a dinner in 2002.
However, there is a suggestion that there may be more recent claims yet to emerge against Fallon as Westminster faces a swirl of sexual abuse allegations.
Sir Michael had been Defence Secretary since 2014 when he succeeded the current Chancellor Philip Hammond.
The new Defence Secretary
Theresa May has moved quickly to replace the outgoing Defence Secretary and Gavin Williamson’s appointment has reportedly taken many in Westminster by surprise.
Williamson was a backbencher until last summer, when he was promoted to Chief Whip. It has been suggested that it is unusual to see an MP promoted to the cabinet without previously having held a more junior ministerial role.
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Gavin Williamson named as defence secretary
Gavin Williamson is announced as UK defence secretary, replacing Sir Michael Fallon who resigned on Wednesday
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