HARRIETT Baldwin has today spoken of her delight at being appointed a junior defence minister - with her first job trying to get MPs to renew Trident.
West Worcestershire's MP is getting to grips with the new role today after Theresa May moved her across from the Treasury over the weekend.
Mrs Baldwin is now responsible for defence procurement, working underneath Secretary of State Michael Fallon in the new-look Government.
She has called the security of Britain "the first business of Government", telling the Worcester News she intends to make sure UK armed forces have the best equipment.
She said: "I'm obviously delighted to continue to serve in Government under a new Prime Minister.
"I look forward to using the experience I gained as a Treasury minister on dealing with the challenges of managing spending on equipment in the Ministry of Defence.
"The role I have taken on have been carried out by both the former Mid-Worcestershire MP Sir Peter Luff and my neighbouring MP Philip Dunne, so I have big shoes to fill.
"The security of our nation is the first business of Government, and it is important that the two per cent of GDP that we spend on defence is used wisely to provide the very best equipment for our armed forces."
Mrs Baldwin was moved from her role as Economic Secretary to the Treasury after Chancellor George Osborne was sacked by Mrs May, prompting a clear-out.
Her appointment came as MPs are preparing to vote tonight on renewing Britain's nuclear deterrent.
The free vote is causing more ructions In the Labour Party, with its leader Jeremy Corbyn due to vote against the renewal in disagreement with most of his MPs.
SOME COUNTY FIRMS MAY FIND POST-BREXIT WORLD TOUGH, SAYS SENIOR COUNCILLOR
A SENIOR Worcestershire councillor says some county employers may find life "difficult" post-Brexit.
Councillor Ken Pollock, the cabinet member for economy, skills and infrastructure at County Hall, says firms who rely on a lot of importing may face serious challenges in the future.
"I think it's fair to say those who find difficulty may be those who import, particularly if the value of the pound is low and they don't export, people of that nature," he said.
"That's the same situation with the construction industry, who have to import in materials in order to do their work domestically.
"But clearly, the opposite may be true for those who find themselves in a different situation."
The Conservative politician was questioned about his thoughts on the impact of Brexit during a full council meeting, where he cited Worcester Bosch as one firm which could run into potential issues.
The Warndon-based firm relies on a lot of exporting, and came out for Remain in the run-up to last month's referendum.
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