TWO LABOUR MINISTERS STEP DOWN FROM GOVERNMENT ROLES

Mike Tapp has confirmed his departure as Home Office minister for migration, and Natalie Fleet has stepped down as safeguarding minister. Tapp announced his exit on social media, stating he was "no longer the Minister for Migration and Citizenship" and expressing disappointment but reaffirming loyalty to Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Fleet told the BBC she had found the safeguarding role "overwhelmingly triggering" and that it was making her ill, describing the decision as "the bravest thing I've ever done".

Tapp's departure follows a reported public disagreement with Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood over proposed indefinite leave to remain reforms, during which he had suggested exempting care workers from the changes. Downing Street issued a rebuke to both ministers over the dispute at the time, though Starmer resisted calls to dismiss Tapp. Fleet, elected MP for Bolsover in July 2024, was appointed safeguarding minister on 12 May following the resignation of Jess Phillips, who said opportunities for progress had been "stalled and delayed" under Starmer's leadership. Fleet, who has spoken openly about being groomed and raped as a teenager, told the BBC that the nature of the role meant hearing "the worst of humanity" and that whilst she received support from the Home Office, the work was affecting her health.

Tapp cited achievements including delivery of the Electronic Travel Authorisation scheme and improvements to the Windrush Compensation Scheme. He stated he would continue contributing to Parliament, bringing experience from work in national security. Fleet offered her support to her successor and said she believed the role deserved "someone at their best".