Defense deputy won't stay on

WASHINGTON, Dec. 2 (UPI) -- U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense Gordon England said Tuesday he will not serve in the Obama administration.

England, the second highest ranking Pentagon official, said he feels it "most appropriate" for President-elect Barack Obama to name his own team, The Hill reported.

On Monday, Obama announced Defense Secretary Robert Gates would stay on in his administration.

"I congratulate President-elect Obama for retaining Bob Gates as secretary, and I salute Bob Gates for his continued commitment," England said. "However, it's time for me to leave. When I came into government in early 2001, I anticipated serving for two to four years. After almost eight years, it's now time for me to turn over the reins to a successor."