Bangladeshi born Rushanara Ali resigns as UK minister to 'avoid distraction' for Labour government

Rushanara Ali, the first MP of Bangladeshi origin in Britain's House of Commons, has resigned from her ministerial post in the Labour government.

She shared the news on her verified Facebook profile late last night (8 August), posting a photo of her resignation letter along with a brief message. 

"It has been an honour to have served in this Labour Government. To avoid any further distraction for the government, I have resigned as a Minister," she wrote. 

In her resignation letter, dated 7 August, addressed to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, she wrote, "It is with a heavy heart that I offer you my resignation as a Minister. It has been the honour of my life to have played my part in first securing and then serving as part of this Labour Government. You have my continued commitment, loyalty and support."

Responding to recent media reports, Ali said, "Further to recent reporting, I wanted to make it clear that at all times I have followed all relevant legal requirements. I believe I took my responsibilities and duties seriously, and the facts demonstrate this.

"However, it is clear that continuing in my role will be a distraction from the ambitious work of the government. I have therefore decided to resign from my Ministerial position."

Reflecting on her time in office, Ali said she was proud to have contributed to the change brought about by the Labour government over the past year.

"Working alongside the Deputy Prime Minister, we secured record investment in social and affordable housing, and nearly a billion pounds of funding to alleviate homelessness and rough sleeping. I am proud to have delivered this government's election strategy, leading to legislation that will protect and enhance our democracy, with tough new laws on foreign donations, extending the vote to 16 and 17-year-olds, and tackling harassment and intimidation in public life," she added. 

She also expressed pride in serving a government "that is investing in the NHS, rebuilding communities, securing trade deals, delivering jobs and growth, and rebuilding Britain's place on the world stage."

"Under your leadership, Britain is showing international leadership on a range of issues, from standing up for Ukraine against Russian aggression, to working with our allies on developing a pathway to end the war in Gaza, including recognition of Palestinian statehood," she added.

Ali concluded the letter by thanking the Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister for their support.