Michael Gove and wife Sarah Vine to divorce but ‘remain close friends’
‘The family politely ask for privacy at this time’ says a statement
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.Senior government minister Michael Gove and his journalist wife Sarah Vine are to split after almost 20 years of marriage, a joint spokesperson for the couple said.
The high-profile couple married in October 2001.
Their spokesman said: “Michael and Sarah have agreed to separate and they are in the process of finalising their divorce.
“They will continue to support their two children and they remain close friends.
“The family politely ask for privacy at this time and will not be providing any further comment.”
Ms Vine, a columnist for The Daily Mail and the Mail on Sunday, wrote an article last week in which she expounded on the extent to which Westminster life can drive a wedge between partners.
Writing about former health secretary Matt Hancock’s resignation, after leaked footage of him kissing an adviser and old friend, she suggested that senior politicians often change while in office.
She wrote: “Climbing that far up Westminster’s greasy pole changes a person. And when someone changes, they require something new from a partner.”
A friend of the couple said: “This is a difficult and sad decision for Michael and Sarah after 20 years of marriage.
“It is an entirely amicable separation and there is no one else involved.
“They have drifted apart over the past couple of years but they remain friends.
“Their absolute priority is the children.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments