Keir Starmer's government has been plunged into further chaos as reports emerge that a senior Cabinet minister is on resignation watch and could quit imminently. The Prime Minister faces a turbulent evening after his Defence Secretary and former loyal ally John Healey stepped down, blasting Labour's defence investment plans.
Healey's Resignation Sparks Turmoil
The Rawmarsh and Conisbrough MP broadsided his own government, stating that the UK's defence funding plan "falls well short of what is required for defence and the country at this dangerous time." His resignation leaves Sir Keir searching for a new defence secretary ahead of the anticipated release of the long-overdue defence investment plan, expected before the NATO summit.
Yvette Cooper on Resignation Watch
This evening, rumours are swirling that another top Cabinet member could be about to step down, risking further chaos at the heart of No10. The Independent was told that Yvette Cooper, the foreign secretary, could be typing up her resignation letter next. One MP told the paper that the foreign secretary was "very, very unhappy" with the direction of Sir Keir Starmer's government. She was reported to have even told the Prime Minister that he would need to tell MPs when he planned on leaving Downing Street.
One MP reportedly told The Independent: "John [Healey] will not be the last to quit." Another caused more trouble for the Government by adding that Ms Cooper "is definitely on resignation watch."
Denials from Cooper's Camp
However, sources close to the Labour grandee denied she was planning to go. They told the Daily Express "no" when approached by this paper. The Express understands that Ms Cooper has been hosting Australian and Canadian foreign ministers at her grace-and-favour pad in Chevening. The source added: "We're now on the way to Paris, getting on with the job."
Political Fallout
Today's shocking events have been panned by Sir Keir's rivals. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said Mr Healey's resignation showed Sir Keir's premiership was "falling apart," while Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said his departure should act as "a wake-up call" for Sir Keir, urging him to "get serious about funding our armed forces properly."
