Williamson’s exit gets Sunak’s premiership off to an awkward start

Minister's resignation will ramp up concern among Tory MPs over leader's political judgment and appointments

Rishi Sunak knew his premiership would be bound for a rocky start, but the embarrassing defenestration of one of his close cabinet allies after just two weeks threatens to reopen bitter divisions in the Conservative party.

Despite initial attempts to resist sacking Gavin Williamson after a slew of bullying allegations, the prime minister was forced on Tuesday to accept his resignation - not because of any admission of wrongdoing, but because it was becoming a distraction".