DEFENCE Secretary Ben Wallace today confirmed he wants to be named Nato’s next secretary general.
Following months of speculation, Mr Wallace finally admitted: “That’s a job I’d like”.
Ben Wallace today admitted he wants to replace Jens Stoltenberg as Nato General Secretary
Mr Stoltenberg is set to stand down in September, and Mr Wallace has been tipped by experts as the top contender to replace him
He told German news agency dpa: “I’ve always said it would be a good job.”
The Defence Secretary described the top job as “fantastic” and “an incredibly important part of all our securities”.
He added: “But I’m also loving the job I do now – I mean, to be Defence Secretary of the British Government at a time of reform and investment.”
Trending In The News previously reported Mr Wallace has Rishi Sunak’s blessing to go for it.
If successful it would be a huge boost for Britain, with no homegrown having led the alliance for 25 years.
The big admission comes as current Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg’s term expires in September.
After 10 years in the role he won’t seek a further extension.
Nato member states typically decide on the alliance’s next chief behind the scenes.
Following the UK’s world leading response to the conflict in Ukraine, experts say Mr Wallace is in with a strong shot.
But while he’s tipped for the coveted role, the Defence Secretary still faces competition.
Some states have been pushing for a woman or someone from eastern Europe.
France is said to be keen on an EU candidate.
If Mr Wallace get’s the job he’ll have to stand down as the MP for Wyre and Preston North, triggering a by-election.
