Williamson is a Cameronite from the 2010 intake, he is known as a forensic networker and strategic opportunist; highlights of his fast track political career include three years as David Cameron’s parliamentary private secretary, acting as Theresa May’s campaign manager and as Chief Whip signing the final deal with the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which gave Theresa May the edge in forming government, in June 2017.
There are tests ahead for Williamson in his new role. MP Johnny Mercer is leading a campaign to increase the still-capped pay levels of the armed forces; Williamson will have to battle with the treasury for substantial increases in defence funding to cover existing commitments and make future ones; he will be meeting James Mattis, a Secretary of State with superior military experience, and other Defence Ministers at the North Atlantic Council in Brussels next week.
Williamson is often referred to as “the assassin”. He keeps his pet tarantula Cronus on his desk, he seems to have turned Westminster into a hybrid of House of Cards and Hogwarts. There will be good viewing ahead as he settles into his seat at the top table.