Two Conservative ministers have resigned from their positions in a dual setback for Rishi Sunak, necessitating a minor reshuffle of junior positions within the government.
Robert Halfon, a seasoned MP, surprised many by announcing his resignation as education minister and his intention to leave the House of Commons at the upcoming general election.
James Heappey, the armed forces minister, who had previously expressed his intention to step down, confirmed his departure from the Ministry of Defence ahead of his planned exit.
Their departures add to the increasing number of Conservative MPs exiting the Commons, as the party struggles in the polls, with expectations of Keir Starmer's Labour party assuming government following the upcoming autumn election.
Halfon becomes the 63rd Conservative MP to opt out of standing in the next election, with recent departures including Theresa May and former cabinet minister Brandon Lewis. Additionally, four former Conservatives who now sit as independents are also leaving, accounting for slightly over a fifth of the Tory MPs elected in 2019.
While ministers announcing their intention to stand down at the election are not required to leave government immediately, prime ministers generally prefer a team focused on preparing for the election rather than those awaiting their departure.
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