Liz Truss resigns as UK Prime Minister

Thursday, 20 October 2022 01:00

Liz Truss has resigned as UK prime minister.

Her resignation as Prime Minister and Tory Leader comes just 44 days after taking over from Boris Johnson making her the shortest-serving prime minister in history.

In a statement outside Downing Street, Truss said she could not deliver the mandate on which she was elected as Tory leader and that there will be another Conservative leadership election within the next week.

Liz Truss is thought to remain as Prime Minister until a successor has been chosen.

As Reported by The BBC, Liz Truss's full statement reads:

"I came into office at a time of great economic and international instability. Families and businesses were worried about how to pay their bills. Putin's illegal war in Ukraine threatens the security of our whole continent. And our country has been held back for too long by low economic growth.
"I was elected by the Conservative party with a mandate to change this. We delivered on energy bills and on cutting national insurance. And we set out a vision for a low tax high growth economy that would take advantage of the freedoms of Brexit.
"I recognise though, given the situation, I cannot deliver the mandate on which I was elected by the Conservative Party. I have therefore spoken to His Majesty the King to notify him that I am resigning as leader of the Conservative Party.
"This morning I met the chairman of the 1922 Committee, Sir Graham Brady. We've agreed that there will be a leadership election to be completed within the next week.
"This will ensure that we remain on a path to deliver our fiscal plans and maintain our country's economic stability and national security. I will remain as prime minister until a successor has been chosen. Thank you."

In response, Labour Leader Keir Starmer, Lib Dem leader Ed Davey, and the SNP have all called for an immediate general election to be called.

Last night, Truss told MPs she was a "fighter, not a quitter", however following the resignation of the home secretary and a chaotic vote on fracking, the longevity of Truss's leadership came under fire.

According to Sky Bet, former Chancellor Rishi Suank remains the favourite to be the next Prime Minister after Liz Truss with Penny Mordaunt as another likely candidate.

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt ruled himself out as a contender shortly after Truss's resignation.

Local MP, John Glen has been approached for comment. More to follow.

For the latest local news in Salisbury like Love Salisbury on Facebook or tune into Salisbury Radio on DAB or online.

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