Suffolk Coastal MP Therese Coffey quits as Environment Secretary amid reshuffle
She's seen as a key ally of former Prime Minister Liz Truss
Suffolk Coastal MP Therese Coffey has quit as Environment Secretary, as part of Rishi Sunak's reshuffle of his top team.
The 51 year old had served in the role since October last year, after briefly holding the post of Deputy Prime Minister under Liz Truss.
She also had roles in the Department of Health and the Department for Work and Pensions.
In a letter, Ms Coffey wrote: "I consider it is now the right time to step back from government."
"In my years of service and different ministerial posts, I am proud to have delivered for people, the planet and prosperity throughout that time."
"Turning ambition into action and delivery has been the hallmark of my service. I want to thank the many dedicated civil servants, ministers and special advisers who have helped me achieve that.
"I served alongside you during Covid when I was at the Department for Work and Pensions. My key achievement was that during the pandemic, we ensured that the welfare system continued to support people even in the most challenging circumstances in half a century.
"We looked after the most vulrerable people and helped many people back into work. In particular, we worked together on Kickstart to give young people a lifeline and confidence in their future.
"In my time as Health Secretary, I was pleased to present Our Plan for Patients and acted swiftly to protect the vulnerable and the NHS during last winter.
"While there is more I could write about what I am proud of having achieved in government, I have always been most proud in representing my constituents of Suffolk Coastal and acting on local issues."
The re-shuffle has seen the high-profile sacking of Home Secretary Suella Braverman, with James Cleverly replacing her.
Former PM David Cameron has also returned to government to serve as Foreign Secretary.