David Reed named Shadow Minister for Ministry of Defence and Foreign Office

David Reed, the MP for Exmouth and Exeter East, has been appointed to the Conservative frontbench as a Shadow Minister covering the Ministry of Defence and Foreign Office.

Before entering Parliament in 2024, Reed spent 16 years working across the Royal Marines, national security and the defence industry, experience he will now bring to his new frontbench role.

A joined-up approach to defence and foreign policy

The appointment reflects a position Reed has argued for since becoming an MP, that Britain's defence and foreign policy should be considered together, as part of a single strategic view of the threats and challenges the country faces, rather than treated separately.

The role also builds on his existing work on national resilience, and how the UK can better prepare for and respond to emerging threats. He has previously called for a more joined-up approach spanning defence, national security, resilience and Britain's relationships with its international partners.

What he's said

Commenting on the appointment, Reed said he was grateful for the opportunity.

"It is a real privilege to have been appointed Shadow Minister for the Ministry of Defence and Foreign Office," he said. "I am grateful to Kemi Badenoch for the opportunity and the trust she has placed in me."

He said the role came at a critical time for Britain's approach to security and international relations. "In an increasingly dangerous world, defence and foreign policy must go hand in hand," he said. "I am eager to get stuck in and help lead the development of a strong, coherent Conservative approach to Britain's security and our role in the world."