UK Minister Gavin Williamson Resigns From Cabinet Post Amid Scandal Over 'Slit Your Throat' Messages
20:34 GMT 08.11.2022 (Updated: 20:58 GMT 08.11.2022)
© AFP 2023 / JOHN SIBLEY
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Gavin Williamson, the UK's Minister of State without Portfolio, announced his resignation on Tuesday evening after objections were raised to his appointment while he was still the subject of an ethics investigation.
In a letter to UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Tuesday, Williamson said he was "stepping back" from his office because the investigation into his past conduct was "becoming a distraction" for the government.
"I have therefore decided to step back from government so that I can comply fully with the complaints process that is underway and clear my name of any wrongdoing," he wrote.
— Gavin Williamson (@GavinWilliamson) November 8, 2022
In a response, Sunak wrote that he accepted Williamson's resignation "with great sadness."
"I support your decision to step back and understand why you have taken it. I would like to thank you for your personal support and loyalty," he added. "I also want to express my gratitude for the work you have done for this government."
Rishi Sunak's letter to Gavin Williamson: "It is with great sadness that I accept your resignation... I support your decision to step back and understand why you have taken it. I would like to thank you for your personal support and loyalty." pic.twitter.com/SuFCdcQpQR
— Jane Merrick (@janemerrick23) November 8, 2022
Sunak appointed Williamson last month to support the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster after Sunak won out among Conservative Party candidates to replace Liz Truss, who had recently quit Downing Street.
However, it soon emerged that a fellow lawmaker had made a complaint against Williamson the day before, alleging he sent them abusive messages prior to the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II in September. Williamson has apologized for the comments.
Then over the weekend, new accusations emerged of more abusive behavior by Williamson, including that while serving as the UK's defense secretary, he told a civil servant to "slit your throat" and another to "jump out of a window." Williamson has denied the "characterization" of the claims.
