New Permanent Secretary To Ministry Of Defence Announced

A new Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Defence (MOD) has been chosen and will take up his post on 6 April.

The Cabinet Secretary, with the approval of the Prime Minister, announced the appointment of David Williams in the role.

He will be taking over from Sir Stephen Lovegrove who has been appointed National Security Adviser.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said Mr Williams will bring with him a "wealth of experience".

He said: "I'm pleased to welcome David Williams back to the Ministry of Defence as the new Permanent Secretary.

"David brings a wealth of experience from across Government and rejoins the department at an exciting time.

"Following last year's record multi-year settlement, and this week's publication of the Defence Command Paper, there is much to do to fulfil the ambitious goals we have set for ourselves.

"I'm confident David will lead the department to achieve those ambitions," he added.

Mr Wallace also thanked Sir Stephen for his "hard work and dedication over nearly five years".

Commenting on his appointment, Mr Williams said he was looking forward to holding the position.

"I am really pleased to be returning to the Ministry of Defence, where I started my civil service career, reconnecting with old friends and making new ones," he said.

"With the publication of the Integrated Review and this week's Defence Command Paper, there is lots to do and I am looking forward to working with the Defence Secretary, the Ministerial team and the fantastic people at MOD – military and civilian alike – to take forward the Government's plans."

Cover image: The Ministry of Defence building in Whitehall, central London (Picture: PA).