In a significant political development, UK Transport Secretary Louise Haigh has stepped down from her position following revelations of a past legal issue. The resignation marks the first by a cabinet member in Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Labour government, which assumed power after the general election in July.
The controversy stems from a 2013 incident when Haigh, then a private citizen, reported her work mobile phone stolen after being mugged. However, she later found the device and failed to inform authorities, leading to her admission of a fraud charge in court in 2014. The court discharged her without further action, but the revelation has sparked criticism and calls for accountability.
In her resignation letter, Haigh, 37, expressed her dedication to the government’s agenda but acknowledged that stepping down was in the best interest of the administration. “I remain totally committed to our political project, but I now believe it will be best served by my supporting you from outside government,” she wrote.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer accepted her resignation, praising Haigh’s contributions, particularly her efforts to improve the nation’s rail system. “Louise has made huge strides in bringing our railways back into public ownership,” Starmer said, reaffirming his commitment to the government’s transportation goals.
As Transport Secretary, Haigh had been instrumental in advancing key projects, including overseeing progress on the controversial high-speed rail project, HS2. The project has faced backlash after the previous Conservative government scrapped significant sections due to escalating costs. Haigh also led efforts to renationalize the country’s struggling rail services, with the plans receiving parliamentary approval last week.
This resignation comes after months of scrutiny over Starmer’s leadership team, including the October departure of his chief of staff, Sue Gray. Haigh’s resignation adds further pressure on the Labour government as it navigates challenges and delivers on its ambitious reform agenda.
Sources By Agencies
