HEXHAM MP Guy Opperman has been reinstated to government following his resignation on Thursday (July 7).

Guy Opperman MP was the 51st MP to resign from the government in a letter to the PM which was posted on Twitter.

The MP resigned from his role of Pensions Minister which he has held since 2017, but was to continue to serve local constituents from the backbenches. 

In his resignation letter, Mr Opperman said he was 'particularly upset' at the actions of the Number 10 team during Covid restrictions.

"I backed you in January 2022 because I wanted to see a real change in approach in Number Ten.

"I have given you ample opportunity to show real change. Sadly, recent events have shown clearly that government simply cannot function with you in charge.

"In good faith, and with regret, for the good of the country, I must ask you to stand down.

"No one individual, however successful in the past, is bigger than the party, or this great country."

He went on to say: "It has been a honour, and a great responsibility, to serve as a minister, but we need leadership change, and I have resigned.

"I will continue to work for my constituents in Hexham from the backbenches. 

"I resign with great regret, given there are serious ongoing issues that need addressing ranging from cost of living support, to legislation, and parliamentary debates."

On Friday (July 8) he said: "I have agreed to help the DWP navigate the next few weeks, while we decide the appointment of a new Prime Minister.

"With DWP Questions on Monday, legislation, and regulations in Parliament over the next two weeks, and the extra cost of living support for pensioners, it is vital the interests of pensioners continue to be served in government."

 

Mr Opperman will assist the DWP in a caretaker role.

The Queen approved his appointment to be a Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Work and Pensions.

Also appointed were Helen Wheeler MP to be a Parliamentary Secretary at the Cabinet Office, and Julie Marson MP to be a Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Work and Pensions and an Assistant Government Whip.