Full Breakdown
Resignations of Ashley Dalton and Josh Simons: Health Minister and Cabinet Office Minister Step Down
3/2/2026, 10:27:50 PM
Ashley Dalton Resigns Amid Cancer Treatment
Ashley Dalton, the public health minister and MP for West Lancashire, has resigned from her ministerial role to focus on her ongoing treatment for metastatic breast cancer. Diagnosed with the incurable disease in January 2025, Dalton has been undergoing oral chemotherapy and stated that stepping back from her ministerial duties is necessary to manage her health and continue serving her constituents effectively.
In her resignation letter to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Dalton expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and emphasized the importance of supporting individuals with long-term health conditions. She stated, “My constituents deserve a member of parliament to represent them with diligence and conviction,” and noted that her treatment would not prevent her from advocating for health improvements for cancer patients. Dalton plans to return to the backbenches, remaining committed to her constituents and the government’s health agenda.
Dalton had recently introduced the government’s National Cancer Plan, which aims to save 320,000 lives over its lifetime and improve the quality of life for those living with cancer. She reflected on her experience, stating that while her condition is stable, it is incurable, and she is determined not to be defined by her illness.
Josh Simons Resigns Over Journalist Smear Allegations
Josh Simons, the former Cabinet Office minister and MP for Makerfield, resigned following an investigation into allegations that he commissioned a public relations firm to investigate journalists. The inquiry, led by Sir Laurie Magnus, the Prime Minister's independent ethics adviser, found no breach of the ministerial code but noted that Simons' continued presence in office had become a distraction from the government’s work.
Simons faced scrutiny over his role as director of the Labour Together think tank, which allegedly paid £36,000 to Apco Worldwide to investigate journalists reporting on its financial activities. In his resignation letter, Simons stated, “It is clear that my remaining in office has now become a distraction from this Government’s important work,” and emphasized his respect for journalistic integrity.
Prime Minister Starmer accepted Simons' resignation with sadness, acknowledging his contributions to the government. Starmer reiterated that Magnus found no breach of the ministerial code, but the situation had raised concerns about reputational damage to the government.
Official Statements & Responses
In response to Dalton's resignation, Health Secretary Wes Streeting praised her as an “outstanding minister” and expressed pride in her decision to prioritize her health and constituency work. Starmer also thanked Dalton for her service and commitment to improving health outcomes.
Simons' resignation prompted mixed reactions within the Labour Party. While some colleagues defended his actions, others criticized the delay in his resignation, suggesting it reflected poorly on the party’s leadership. Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative leader, called for a full investigation into Labour Together's activities and criticized Starmer for not taking decisive action sooner.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Simons have highlighted the implications of the smear allegations on press freedom and the integrity of political accountability. Labour MPs have called for further investigations into Labour Together's practices, expressing disappointment with the handling of the situation by party leadership.
Dalton's resignation has been met with support from health advocates who emphasize the importance of prioritizing health while serving in public office. Her decision to step back has been viewed as a necessary step for both her well-being and effective representation of her constituents.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I believe now is the right time to take the reasonable adjustments I need to both manage my condition and focus on being a constituency MP by stepping back from ministerial duties.” — Ashley Dalton, Health Minister
- “Nonetheless, it is clear that my remaining in office has now become a distraction from this Government’s important work.” — Josh Simons, Former Cabinet Office Minister
The resignations of Ashley Dalton and Josh Simons highlight the challenges faced by public officials balancing personal health and political responsibilities, as well as the ongoing scrutiny of political practices within the Labour Party.
