National Security Minister David Burch has resigned, with Deputy Speaker Wayne Perinchief replacing him at a swearing-in ceremony at Government House this morning.Former Police Commissioner Jonathan Smith was sworn in to take Mr Burch's seat in the Senate; Senator Smith will serve as Junior National Security Minister.Premier Paula Cox spoke briefly on Mr Burch's sudden departure, telling the media: “In the circumstances, it's not a resignation I would have welcomed or wanted.”Ms Cox described Mr Burch as a “Minister who stood for duty and honour”; she said Mr Perinchief has shown passion and commitment while Sen Smith would bring a new dimension to Government's efforts to tackle crime.The Premier would not reveal any reason for Mr Burch quitting.Mr Perinchief said Ms Cox telephoned him yesterday to ask if he would step up after Mr Burch had resigned. Asked why Mr Burch had resigned, Mr Perinchief told reporters: “No clue. It's a surprise, but I'm happy to fill the breach.”Mr Burch has been unavailable for comment this morning.He has stated in his Government e-mail auto response: “Please be advised that my Government Service ended on April 2, 2011. Personal emails can be sent to my home address.“Please check the Government website for information on the appointment of a new Minister.”A statement from Government this morning said: "Acting Governor David Arkley this morning swore in Wayne Perinchief as Minister of National Security. The post was vacated at the weekend with the resignation of Senator David Burch."The Government House ceremony this morning also saw former Police Commissioner, Jonathan Smith sworn in as a new member of the Senate and as a Junior Minister."The Acting Governor congratulated both men on their new roles and wished them every success."Minister Perinchief who is also the Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly and a former Assistant Police Commissioner of the Bermuda Police Service, said he was pleased to note that his contemporary will become a Junior Minister and that he was pleased to support the Premier and the country at large."Senator Smith said he would take his responsibility very seriously and that he looked forward to serving the Government and the Country."Premier Paula Cox said Senator Burch had represented duty, honour and Country and while no one can replace him, she was pleased to make the two new appointments.“Government is a continuum,” the Premier said, “and this circumstance offers an opportunity for a senior Minister who has passion and commitment to the Country as well as a new Junior Minister who can bring a new dimension in Government’s efforts to tackle crime.”