Dominic Raab, the UK’s Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Minister, resigned on Friday following an independent review into formal allegations about his behaviour.
Raab said in a letter to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak that the inquiry had created a dangerous precedent, but that he would continue to support the administration.
“I requested the investigation and agreed to resign if it found any evidence of bullying. I believe it is critical that I keep my word,” Raab said.
“By lowering the bar for bullying so low, this investigation has set a dangerous precedent. It would encourage frivolous complaints against Ministers and chill those pursuing change on behalf of your government – and ultimately, the British people,” he warned.
His resignation comes a day after Sunak received the results of a five-month probe into public servant allegations by employment lawyer Adam Tolley on Thursday.
Raab, 49, has faced many formal accusations about his allegedly aggressive handling of civil staff, prompting Sunak to order an independent probe in November.
Raab’s departure is the third senior minister to resign over their personal behaviour since Sunak took office in October, vowing an honest government.