The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Keir Starmer, has announced the appointment of Den Jarvis as the new Defence Secretary, succeeding John Healey, who resigned earlier today. This change comes amid ongoing discussions regarding the government’s defense spending plans.
In a statement, Starmer emphasized his commitment to ensuring the safety of the British public, stating, “My first duty is to ensure the safety of the British people, and I will always do what is necessary to protect our national security. I am pleased to appoint Den Jarvis as Defence Secretary as we strengthen our armed forces and respond to the increasing threats our country faces.”
Healey’s resignation was attributed to his disagreement with the government’s proposed defense budget, which he deemed insufficient in light of escalating threats to national security.
Profile of Den Jarvis
Den Jarvis has served as the Member of Parliament for Barnsley North since 2011. He held the position of Mayor of South Yorkshire from 2018 to 2022. Prior to his political career, Jarvis was an officer in the British Army’s Parachute Regiment from 1997 to 2011, participating in military operations in Kosovo, Sierra Leone, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
In 2024, he was appointed Minister for Security at the Home Office, a role he maintained until his recent promotion to Defence Secretary.
Den Jarvis has been appointed as the new Defence Secretary of the UK, following John Healey's resignation over disagreements regarding defense spending. Jarvis brings military experience and a background in local governance to the role.