Following the Prime Minister announcement today that he will stand down, MP for Preseli Pembrokeshire Stephen Crabb has said that it was the ‘right decision’ for Boris Johnson to resign as Conservative Party leader.

“It is always sad to see a Prime Minister's time in office cut short, but it was the right decision for Boris Johnson to resign as Conservative Party leader today,” said Mr Crabb.

“Although I did not support him for the leadership in 2019, he won that contest comfortably and went on to lead my party to its biggest general election majority in thirty years.

“He has shown some strong qualities during his time in office, and his clear-sighted leadership over Ukraine has been enormously important in galvanising the western alliance.

“But these qualities have been overshadowed by controversy and question marks over his honesty. Trust and good will towards him have been draining away throughout this year, and ultimately this has led to a breakdown in effective government.

“At a time of extraordinary pressures on families as a result of the cost of living crisis, we just cannot afford to see dozens of high quality ministers leaving their positions.

“Personally I would prefer to see a caretaker Prime Minister take the reins while a proper leadership contest takes place. A clear line needs to be drawn under this period of government.

“There are tough challenges ahead for the nation, and some difficult decisions to be taken. It is now essential that we get on with job of finding the right person who will be able to lead the strongest possible team at this time,” he added.

After Welsh Secretary of State Simon Hart (who was in Narberth earlier today in his role as MP for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire to greet the Prince of Wales on his visit to the market town), resigned on the eve of the Prime Minister’s announcement; Andrew RT Davies MS, Leader of the Welsh Conservatives in the Senedd, said he was sad to see Mr Hart leave.

“I’m sorry to see Simon Hart leave the Wales Office under extraordinary circumstances,” remarked Andrew RT Davies.

“Since being appointed in December 2019 his help, support and dedication to Wales have been unwavering.

“I also want to pay tribute to his fantastic ministerial team, David TC Davies and Virginia Crosbie, and all the hardworking Wales Office staff.

“I look forward to working with the new Secretary of State for Wales, Llanelli-born, Welsh speaker Robert Buckland, who I first met when we both went for selection to the seat of Brecon and Radnor over 20 years ago.

“We fully recognise the interim nature of the cabinet appointments, but it is essential they focus on the opportunities and challenges facing the people of Wales today.

“It’s now vital that the Party get on with selecting a new leader to take over as Prime Minister and continue to deliver on the mandate the British people gave to the Conservative Party in 2019, enacting our manifesto commitments in the remainder of this parliament.”