, Defence Secretary Des Browne today announced a redistribution of responsibilities within the MOD, following the announcement by 10 Downing Street that Lord Drayson had been appointed Minister of State for Defence Equipment and Support.
Lord Drayson will take on responsibility for the new Defence Equipment and Support Organisation, which will be formed later this year following the merger of the Defence Procurement Agency and Defence Logistics Organisation. This change reflects the MoD's determination to drive through the necessary changes to ensure we get the best equipment for our Armed Forces.
Lord Drayson will also hold Ministerial responsibility for the Defence Industrial Strategy, with its important emphasis on through-life management of equipment, and for commercial policy throughout the Department.
Des Browne said:
“I am delighted at Lord Drayson's promotion to Minister of State. This is recognition of his leadership and in particular his efforts to galvanise the MoD's procurement processes to improve the way we support our forces, especially on operations.”
“I have also asked Adam Ingram, Minister of State for the Armed Forces, supported by Derek Twigg, the Under Secretary of State for Defence, to take the lead on key Armed Forces personnel issues, including recruitment, training and education, Service family issues and the defence medical services. This means that these very important issues will have the day-to-day attention of a highly experienced Minister of State. In addition to supporting Adam Ingram in this way, Derek Twigg will remain Minister for Veterans.”
“I have an excellent ministerial team in Adam Ingram, Paul Drayson, and Derek Twigg, and I am confident that this adjustment will strengthen our ability to lead the department at this very challenging time.”
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