Barnsley North MP Dan Jarvis named Defence Secretary - after John Healey quits
One South Yorkshire MP has been swapped for another in the key government role
Last updated 12th Jun 2026
Sir Keir Starmer said he was pleased to appoint Barnsley North MP Dan Jarvis as Defence Secretary as the Government works to “meet the growing threats facing our country”, following John Healey’s exit in a row over military funding.
In a statement released after Mr Jarvis’ appointment, the Prime Minister said: “My first duty is to keep the British people safe, and I will always do what is necessary to protect our national security.
“I am pleased to appoint Dan Jarvis as Defence Secretary as we strengthen our armed forces and meet the growing threats facing our country.
“This Labour Government is delivering the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War.
“In a dangerous and volatile world, we will give our armed forces the capabilities they need to defend Britain and keep our nation secure.”
Healey, the MP for nearby Rawmarsh and Conisbrough, quit yesterday with sharp criticism of the Prime Minister and the Chancellor over an alleged failure to properly fund the UK's defence.