A government minister from the Conservative Party mentioned in a report by the Privileges Committee regarding interference in the investigation of Boris Johnson’s partygate scandal has resigned from his position.
Lord Zac Goldsmith, a former Member of Parliament, has stepped down from his environmental role, citing Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s lack of interest in the matter as the reason for his resignation. On Thursday, the Tory peer, who is a close ally of Mr. Johnson and was appointed to the House of Lords by him, was criticized by the Privileges Committee for tweeting about its findings that the former prime minister had lied to Parliament about parties breaking lockdown rules at Downing Street. In his post, Lord Goldsmith referred to the committee’s inquiry as a “kangaroo court” and a “witch hunt.” However, Mr. Sunak’s spokesperson insisted that the Prime Minister still had confidence in Lord Goldsmith.
Nevertheless, just 24 hours later, Lord Goldsmith resigned from his position, expressing his dissatisfaction with the current leadership at Number 10 in a strongly-worded resignation letter. The Tory peer described his time in office as an “exhilarating experience” and praised the UK’s progress in taking a leading role in global climate change efforts, particularly during Mr. Johnson’s tenure. However, Lord Goldsmith stated that he was “horrified” by the government’s abandonment of animal welfare policies and the stagnation of environmental initiatives within the country.
He wrote in his resignation letter, “More worryingly, the UK has visibly diminished its global influence and withdrawn from its leadership role in climate and nature issues. Too often, we are absent from crucial international forums. Just last week, you [Mr. Sunak] chose to attend a media baron’s party instead of a critically important environmental summit in Paris, which the UK would typically co-lead.”
Lord Goldsmith further criticized the government for effectively abandoning its solemn commitment to allocate £11.6 billion of its aid budget to climate and environmental causes. He called this commitment “the single most important signal” to countries affected by climate change and emphasized its significance in persuading other G7 nations to take action. Lord Goldsmith accused the government of not being transparent about breaking this promise, as the final year of spending would occur after the next general election.
He expressed his frustration by stating, “Prime Minister, despite achieving so much in the past, I have struggled to maintain progress in recent months. The issue is not that the government is hostile to the environment; rather, it is your personal lack of interest as our prime minister. This signal, or rather lack thereof, has permeated Whitehall, leading to a state of paralysis.”
Lord Goldsmith stressed that even if the prime minister remained unmoved by the existential challenge posed by climate change, there are countless individuals who deeply care about it, and their votes would be necessary. He considered it a privilege to hold his position but found it untenable to continue in his current role due to the government’s apathy in the face of such a monumental challenge. Therefore, he reluctantly resigned in order to redirect his energy towards more meaningful endeavors.
Former Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries, who was also named in Thursday’s report for her strong criticisms of the Privileges Committee, responded to Lord Goldsmith’s resignation on Twitter. She praised his accomplishments, extensive knowledge, and passion, describing him as the most capable environment minister any government would be fortunate and proud to have. Dorries emphasized that his departure transcends party politics and has significant implications.
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