Defence Secretary

Michael Crick discusses how Gavin Williamson’s rise is being viewed and where it leaves the government.  

The unexpected resignation of Michael Fallon as Defence Secretary yesterday has been followed today by the equally unexpected appointment of Gavin Williamson as his replacement. The elevation of the chief whip, who ran Mrs May’s successful Conservative Party leadership campaign but has never held ministerial office, has provoked disbelief and anger among some MPs.