Former paratrooper Dan Jarvis named Security Minister in new Labour government

A former member of the Parachute Regiment has been named Security Minister in Sir Keir Starmer's new government.

Dan Jarvis, a former major in the regiment, said in a post on X that he was "honoured to be asked by the Prime Minister" to serve in the role.

"Our national security is the first duty of government," he said.

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"Let's get to work."

Mr Jarvis was congratulated by his predecessor, Tom Tugendhat – who also served in the British Army.

In a post on X, Mr Tugendhat said he was "pleased" Mr Jarvis would take over from him.

"Some things are more important than politics," he said. "Your successes will be silent and your teams unseen. 

"I know you will value them, as I always will.

"Good luck, my friend."

Mr Jarvis attended Sandhurst before he was commissioned to the Parachute Regiment, later serving in Kosovo, Northern Ireland, Sierra Leone, Iraq and Afghanistan.

As well as eventually being promoted to major, he served as a Platoon Commander with 1 Para, Aide de Camp to General Sir Mike Jackson and Adjutant of 3 Para.

He also served as a Company Commander in the Special Forces Support Group.

The former Para was elected to Parliament in 2011 and has since been awarded an MBE for his service in the Army.

Jonny Ball, host of the Veterans in Politics podcast, said in a post on X that both were "great ambassadors for what I bore people with on a daily basis: consensus, civility, values, bonded by shared service… stand up serve again!".