Go fourth: John Hutton resigns
By Alex Stevenson
John Hutton is resigning from the government, becoming the fourth Cabinet minister to do so in as many days.
The news came as Gordon Brown began his much-anticipated reshuffle in Downing Street.
politics.co.uk understands Mr Hutton wanted to leave the government but did not want to destabilise the prime minister. His resignation letter is expected to be published shortly, citing family reasons.
Mr Hutton quickly issued a statement after James Purnell quit last night saying the work and pensions secretary had made the “wrong decision”.
Within the context of the current crisis for Downing Street, Mr Hutton’s resignation – lacking the sting of a demand for Mr Brown’s exit – is unlikely to have the same impact as those of Jacqui Smith, Hazel Blears and Mr Purnell.
He had served as defence secretary since October last year.
