31-8-2023 (LONDON) In an unexpected move, former energy minister Grant Shapps has been appointed as Britain’s new defence minister, replacing Ben Wallace. This reshuffle highlights the UK’s continued support for Ukraine but has raised questions about Shapps’ lack of military experience.
The decision to bring Shapps into the role is seen as an effort by Chancellor Rishi Sunak to bolster his team ahead of an anticipated national election next year. Shapps, known for his effective communication skills, is expected to play a significant role in countering the opposition Labour Party’s lead in opinion polls.
Expressing his commitment to the role, Shapps stated, “I am looking forward to working with the brave men and women of our Armed Forces who defend our nation’s security. And continuing the UK’s support for Ukraine in their fight against Putin’s barbaric invasion.”
The United Kingdom, a key supplier of defence equipment to Ukraine, is currently working to ramp up its production of weaponry, particularly artillery shells. This effort aims to assist Kyiv in pushing back Russian forces and replenishing its own military stockpiles.
Notably, Moscow has strongly criticized the UK’s military assistance to Ukraine, accusing it of prolonging the conflict.
Shapps’ appointment has surprised some members of the governing Conservative Party, who have questioned his qualifications in military matters. Despite his lack of direct military experience, Shapps is considered a dependable figure known for his analytical approach, often using spreadsheets in his work.
Recently, Shapps visited Kyiv, where he announced export finance guarantees. During his visit, he also made a poignant stop at the kindergarten previously attended by the young son of a Ukrainian family he had hosted after they fled the conflict in Ukraine. Shapps, citing his own family history, which includes Jewish relatives who were persecuted in Eastern Europe, described the experience of hearing about his Ukrainian guests’ ordeal as “sobering.”
This new role marks Shapps’ fifth ministerial appointment in just one year. Prior to this appointment, he held positions as the minister for transport, interior affairs, business, and, most recently, energy and net zero. His role in the latter capacity has been taken over by former children’s minister Claire Coutinho.
Last month, Shapps made light of his position as the face of the government’s “crisis communications.” He humorously recounted how a junior official had remarked, “there isn’t anybody in the entire world who would want to be in your shoes right now” when he was tasked with defending a former adviser over COVID-19 restrictions.
Ben Wallace, a former British army captain who played a significant role in the UK’s response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, announced his desire to step down from the role after four years. He cited the need to pursue opportunities outside of parliament as his reason for resigning. During his tenure, Wallace frequently emphasized the importance of a strong defence and urged Ukraine to express gratitude to its allies.
Ukraine’s Defence Minister, Oleksiy Reznikov, expressed his appreciation for Wallace’s dedication and energy. He remarked that Wallace’s authority had inspired other countries to assist Ukraine in various ways. Chancellor Rishi Sunak also praised Wallace, understanding his decision to resign after eight years as a minister.
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