Liddell leaves job to 'reclaim' private life
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Helen Liddell announced yesterday that she had decided to resign from Government after six years because she wanted to "reclaim" her private life and spend more time with her family and friends.
The first woman Secretary of State for Scotland told Tony Blair in her resignation letter that she was proud to have served as a member of the Cabinet. But she revealed that she had spoken to the Prime Minister in January and told him that her "mind was moving on to other things".
The Scottish Office she headed was abolished yesterday, which would have forced Ms Liddell to move ministerial jobs had she remained in Government.
Mr Blair told the retiring minister yesterday that she should be "very proud of the distinguished service" she had given the Government.
The Labour MP for Airdrie and Shotts served previously as Transport minister, Energy minister , a Treasury minister and a Minister of State in the Scottish Office.
Scotland's First Minister, Jack McConnell, thanked Ms Liddell for her work, saying she had "served Scotland well".
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments