New Delhi: In a major setback to UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Finance Minister Rishi Sunak and Health Secretary Sajid Javid resigned on Tuesday. Sunak published his own resignation letter, in which he said: “I am sad to be leaving government but I have reluctantly come to the conclusion we cannot continue like this.”
“It is with deep sadness that I am writing to you to resign from the government.... To leave ministerial office is a serious matter at any time. 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 that I have not taken lightly," he added.
“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.”
Sajid Javid wrote on his official Twitter handle saying, "The tone you set as a leader, and the values you represent, reflect on your colleagues, your party and ultimately the country. Conservatives at their best are seen as hard-headed decision-makers, guided by strong values."
He added: “We may not have always been popular but we have been competent in acting in the national interest. Sadly, in the current circumstances, the public are concluding that we are now neither."
He added: “The vote of confidence last month showed that a large number of our colleagues agree. It was a moment for humility, grip and new direction. I regret to say, however, that it is clear to me that this situation will not change under your leadership – and you have therefore lost my confidence too.”