New MI5 boss confirmed

Andrew Parker will take up his new role on Monday, April 22. Cabinet Secretary, Sir Jeremy Heywood, said:

"He brings his deep knowledge and experience of all aspects of the Service and its operations to this role and will be a great leader of the Service, working collaboratively with its partners. I look forward to working with him in his new role.

"I would also like to pay tribute to the outstanding way in which Jonathan Evans has led the Service since 2007 and I wish him all the very best for the future."

50-year-old Andrew Parker got a degree in Natural Sciences from Cambridge. He is married with two children and enjoys the outdoor life, being a keen ornithologist and wildlife photographer.

Andrew Parker has 30 years of professional experience in a range of national security and intelligence work, including:

• Middle East terrorism
• Counter espionage
• Northern Ireland terrorism
• Serious and organised crime
• Protective security
• Policy and strategic planning

Andrew Parker has worked for the Security Service MI5 for more than 30 years and has been in his current role since 2007. He will take over from current MI5 chief Sir Jonathan Evans in April.

Andrew Parker, current Deputy Director General of security service MI5, has been confirmed by the intelligence agency as the new Director General.