UK minister resigns despite review clearing him over journalist investigation claims

Saturday 28 February 2026 - 19:30

A British government minister stepped down on Saturday despite being formally cleared of wrongdoing in a review into allegations that he ordered an investigation into journalists while leading a think tank.

The resignation of Josh Simons came after scrutiny over claims that, prior to joining government, he had directed efforts to look into reporters during his time running a policy institute. The accusations sparked political debate in Westminster and raised questions about ministerial conduct.

An official review conducted by the ethics adviser to Prime Minister Keir Starmer concluded that Simons had not breached the ministerial code. The findings appeared to clear him of any formal misconduct.

However, in a resignation letter addressed to the prime minister, Simons said his continued presence in office risked overshadowing the government’s agenda. “It is clear that my remaining in office has now become a distraction from this government’s important work,” he wrote, adding that he was offering his resignation “with sadness and regret.”

Simons had been serving as a junior minister and was involved in plans related to a proposed national digital identification scheme. His departure comes at a sensitive time for the government, which is advancing several key legislative initiatives.

The issue drew attention within the House of Commons, where opposition figures called for transparency regarding the circumstances surrounding the allegations. While the review’s conclusions shielded Simons from formal sanction, political analysts note that reputational pressure can often prove decisive in such cases.

The prime minister’s office has not indicated whether a replacement has been appointed, but officials reiterated their commitment to upholding ethical standards in public office.