The Secretary of State for War was a senior government official in the United Kingdom responsible for overseeing the British Army and military affairs. This position was established in the early 19th century and played a crucial role in managing military operations, budgets, and personnel. The Secretary reported directly to the Prime Minister and was a key figure in shaping defense policy. In 1964, the role was merged with the Minister of Defence, leading to the creation of the Secretary of State for Defence. This change aimed to streamline military leadership and improve coordination among the armed forces, reflecting the evolving needs of national security during the Cold War era.