Robert Halfon unexpectedly quits as minister in fresh headache for Rishi Sunak

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Robert Halfon has resigned from Rishi Sunak’s authorities in a shock announcement, saying he won’t stand as an MP on the subsequent normal election.

Quitting as abilities, apprenticeships and better training minister, Mr Halfon instructed the prime minister: “I feel that it is time for me to step down at the forthcoming general election, and in doing so, to resign as a minister in your government.”

Mr Halfon added: “I believe that across the country, there is a quiet admiration for your work ethic, integrity and ability to solve complex problems faced by our country.”

Mr Halfon mentioned he would “wholeheartedly” help the PM from the again benches forward of the subsequent normal election whereas championing his Harlow constituency.

It got here as armed forces minister James Heappey formally left his position in authorities, weeks after saying he would step down.

Mr Heappey can be quitting as an MP on the subsequent normal election. The minister, who served in the military in Iraq, Afghanistan and Northern Ireland earlier than becoming a member of parliament, mentioned in a letter printed on-line that he had made a “painful decision” to face down as a candidate in the upcoming normal election.

He continued: “I have concluded that now is the time to step away from politics, prioritise my family, and pursue a different career”.

In a letter to Mr Heappey, the prime minister mentioned: “You have made an important contribution to government and your support to consecutive Conservative administrations at the Ministry of Defence has been commendable.”

And, responding to Mr Halfon’s resignation, Mr Sunak mentioned: “I was very sorry to hear of your decision to step down from government, as well as your intention to stand down at the next election.”

The sudden resignation of Mr Halfon is the most recent blow to Mr Sunak, who’s going through a brutal set of native elections inside weeks.

Mr Heappey and Mr Halfon are the 62nd and 63rd Conservative MPs to announce plans to step down on the normal election, anticipated to be held in October.