Another blow has hit the Conservative Party: James Heappey, another government minister, has announced his resignation from parliament.
He joins a growing list of 62 Conservative MPs who have decided not to stand in the upcoming general election, indicating a troubling trend for the party’s electoral prospects.
Heappey’s departure is particularly significant as he served as the armed forces minister, making his decision to step down from his parliamentary seat and ministerial position highly unusual.
In a letter to the chairman of the Conservative association in his Wells and Mendip Hills constituency, Heappey cited a desire to spend more time with his family and pursue a different career as the reasons behind his departure.
While expressing his support for Rishi Sunak as the party leader and prime minister, Heappey noted that he would transition to the backbenches once Sunak deemed it appropriate.
His decision adds to the recent resignations within the Conservative Party, including Brandon Lewis and former prime minister Theresa May.
Sunak’s recent confirmation that the election will not occur on May 2 has heightened speculation about the timing of the upcoming polls.
October 17 is now considered the most likely date for the country to go to the polls, setting the stage for a pivotal moment in British politics.
