Two key allies of embattled UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson have resigned their posts in his Cabinet in an additional sign of unrest in the administration that could lead to a no-confidence vote in the coming weeks, CNN reports.
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak (effectively the UK’s version of the Treasury Secretary) and Health Secretary Sajid Javid announced Tuesday that they are resigning their positions in the government. Johnson has been mired in a series of scandals from having lavish parties at his official residence and for covering up serious accusations against other high level members of his administration.
“To leave ministerial office is a serious matter at any time,” Sunak wrote in his resignation letter which he posted to Twitter. “For me to step down as Chancellor while the world is suffering the economic consequences of the pandemic, the war in Ukraine and other serious challenges is a decision I have not taken lightly. However, the public rightly expect government to be conducted properly, competently and seriously. I recognise this may be my last ministerial job, but I believe these standards are worth fighting for and that is why I am resigning.”