UK Deputy PM Dominic Raab Resigns Over Bullying Allegations

Dominic Raab on Friday quit his post over allegations of bullying after an independent investigation into formal complaints.

UK Deputy PM Dominic Raab quit his post over allegations of bullying after an independent investigation into formal complaints.

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UK Deputy PM Dominic Raab on Friday quit his post over allegations of bullying after an independent investigation into formal complaints. "I called for the inquiry and undertook to resign, if it made any finding of bullying whatsoever. I believe it is important to keep my word," Raab said as quoted by Reuters. He further said, "In setting the threshold for bullying so low, this inquiry has set a dangerous precedent. It will encourage spurious complaints against Ministers, and have a chilling effect on those driving change on behalf of your government - and ultimately the British people."

In a letter to UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak shared on Twitter, Raab said the inquiry had set a dangerous precedent, but that he would remain supportive of the government.

My resignation statement.👇 pic.twitter.com/DLjBfChlFq

— Dominic Raab (@DominicRaab) April 21, 2023

Announcing his resignation, he wrote, "I called for the inquiry and undertook to resign, if it made any finding of bullying whatsoever. I believe it is important to keep my word". Dominic Raab's resignation means a third senior minister has departed over their personal conduct since UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak entered Downing Street in October promising a government of integrity.

Allegations surfaced about Raab in November 2022, with former staff claiming he created a "culture of fear" in their departments.
He denied the allegations and requested an investigation into himself after two formal complaints were made. The Dy PM and Justice Secretary, Raab was appointed by Rishi Sunak after he took power in October.

"It has been a privilege to serve you as Deputy Prime Minister, Justice Secretary and Lord Chancellor. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work as a Minister in a range of roles and departments since 2015, and pay tribute to the many outstanding civil servants with whom I have worked," he said.

Raab's departure follows Sunak's decision to dismiss Tory party chairman Nadhim Zahawi from his post in January after the former chancellor was found to have broken the ministerial code over his tax affairs.