Dear Prime Minister
I write formally to tender my resignation as Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for the Environment. The Chief Whip has, I know, explained to you my firm view that it would be quite unthinkable for me to remain in the government in the circumstances.
I would like, however, to place on record my appreciation of the trust you placed in me when you first appointed me as an Under Secretary and the kindness that you have shown me since.
As a member of your government, I have done my very best to carry out the duties that were assigned to me and I shall be no less vigorous in my support of you from the backbenches. I am only sorry that the manner of my passing should be the occasion of so much embarrassment to you and my former colleagues. Words are so inadequate, but I feel it most bitterly.
Yours sincerely,
Patrick Nicholls [end p1]
Dear Patrick NichollsPatrick
Thank you for your letter of 11 October in which you tender your resignation from the Government. I accept it only with the greatest sadness. The manner in which you acknowledged a lapse of judgment and took responsibility for it has earned you great credit and sympathy.
Many politicians have suffered a set-back at some stage in their career, only to recover strongly later. I very much hope you will be able to do so too. Meanwhile, I am sure you will be able to make an important contribution from the backbenches.
Yours ever,
Margaret