Rishi Sunak suffers double blow as two senior ministers announce resignations

James Heappey and Robert Halfon have resigned from Government this afternoon (Image: Getty)

Rishi Sunak has been hit by two senior ministerial resignations this afternoon, as both an armed forces minister and an education minister announced their departures from Government.

James Heappey, Minister of State at the Ministry of Defence, announced his intention to quit a fortnight ago, and confirmed he would not stand at the General Election.

However a second minister, Robert Halfon, at the Department for Education has also confirmed he is not only joining the growing number of Tory MPs standing down this year, but is leaving government immediately.

In a letter on X/Twitter, Mr Halfon said that after two decades serving as the MP for Harlow, he feels it is time for him to step down at the election, "and in doing so, to resign as a Minister in your Government".

The pair are the 62nd and 63rd Conservative MPs respectively to have announced they are resigning at the General Election.

Given Mr Heappey's impending departure was known about in advance, his final performance at the Commons dispatch box yesterday saw the Labour Party pay tribute to his lengthy time in the job.

Shadow Defence Secretary John Healey pointed out: "Since the last election we've had five Chancellors, four Foreign Secretaries, three Prime Ministers, two Defence Secretaries, but only one Armed Forces Minister".

"He has been a rare constant in the turmoil of Government, totally committed to defence. We thank him for that and we wish him well."

Taking to Twitter this afternoon, Mr Heappey said he's "loved every minute as Minister for the Armed Forces in this incredible department".

"Our Armed Forces & MOD civil servants are the very best of us. Representing them in Parliament & around the world over last 4.5 years has been an amazing privilege".

However he also warned that the "work isn't done", with a poignant message of continued support for Ukraine.

"Ukraine needs our support now as much as ever. Perhaps even more so. Their’s is a fight for the future of Euro-Atlantic security and so we must continue to lead the world in the breadth & bravery of our support. #SlavaUkraïni"

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