UK Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab, accused of bullying, quits

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Several of Raab’s colleagues in Westminster had complained about his professional behaviour.

British deputy prime minister and justice minister Dominic Raab resigned on Friday, following an independent investigation into formal complaints about his behaviour.

In a letter to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak published on Twitter, Raab said the inquiry had set a dangerous precedent, but that he would remain supportive of the government.

“I called for the inquiry and undertook to resign, if it made any finding of bullying whatsoever. I believe it is important to keep my word,” Raab said.

However, he complained about employees leaking details of his behaviour to the media, and added: “In setting the threshold for bullying so low, this inquiry has set a dangerous precedent. It will encourage spurious complaints against Ministers, and have a chilling effect on those driving change on behalf of your government – and ultimately the British people.”

Raab’s resignation means a third senior minister has departed over their personal conduct since Sunak entered Downing Street in October promising a government of integrity.

Raab began his career as a lawyer and moved into politics in 2000, when he joined the Foreign Office.

He took on a leading role during the coronavirus pandemic, taking the helm of the government while then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson was hospitalised with the virus.