Two Merseyside MPs have become the latest members of Labour’s Shadow cabinet to quit as Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership faces a fresh revolt.
Angela Eagle, who is the Parliamentary representative for Wallasey, announced her decision in a letter to the opposition party’s leader that was also shared on her personal Twitter page.
A host of MPs have tendered their resignations from the Shadow cabinet as Corbyn’s premiership comes under intense scrutiny following the outcome of the EU referendum.
In her letter, the Shadow Business Secretary and First Secretary of State called on Mr Corbyn to resign as leader of the Labour party.
She wrote: “We need a Leader who can hold the Tories to account, provide a genuine alternative, and who can convince the country that we understand their concerns and aspirations.
“We need a Leader who can heal the deep divisions in our country, stand up for our communities, and ultimately to keep our United Kingdom together.
“You have lost the confidence of colleagues, and you have struggled to win the confidence of our voters and the wider the public.
“And so in the interests of the people who so need a Labour Government, I believe it is time for you to stand aside.”
Ms Eagle’s resignation was promptly followed by that of her sister, Maria, the MP for Garston and Halewood, as the Shadow Culture Secretary.
More to follow