Skipton and Ripon MP, Julian Smith, named as new Chief Whip in cabinet re-shuffle
MP for Skipton and Ripon, Julian Smith, has been announced as Chief Whip as part of a cabinet re-shuffle.
Former Chief Whip Gavin Williamson, who was born in Scarborough, has been appointed new Defence Secretary. This follows Sir Michael Fallon's resignation in the wake of sexual harassment claims at Westminster.
About Julian Smith:
Julian was first elected as MP for Skipton and Ripon in 2010.
In May 2015 he joined the government as a Minister in the Whips’ Office and in July 2016 he was promoted to the position of Government Whip and Vice Chamberlain of HM Household. Following the 2017 General Election, he was appointed by the Prime Minister as Government Deputy Chief Whip.
Prior to becoming an MP, he was an entrepreneur. He grew up in Stirling in Scotland, and he read History and English at the University of Birmingham.