Treasury minister skips pre-budget photo citing agoraphobia
by Rowena Mason Deputy political editor from on (#5R6QJ)
Simon Clarke says condition prevents me being comfortable in some open spaces'
Simon Clarke, the chief secretary to the Treasury, has said he would not take part in the traditional pre-budget photo with the chancellor as he is agoraphobic. He said the condition prevents me being comfortable in some open spaces".
His colleagues appeared without him on the front step of No 11 Downing Street after Clarke tweeted a photograph of himself indoors in Downing Street standing alongside Rishi Sunak, the chancellor, and explained why he was due to be absent.
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