Former victims minister says she had “no choice but to resign” after significant electoral defeats
Alex Davies-Jones has resigned from her role as Minister for Victims and Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls, stepping down from her position as a junior minister at the Ministry of Justice following a series of significant electoral defeats.
In her resignation letter, Davies-Jones said she was leaving office with a “very, heavy heart” and stated that she felt she had “no choice but to resign” in light of the political situation.
She pointed to the scale of recent electoral losses, referring specifically to results at the Senedd Cymru and across the United Kingdom. She described the outcomes as “catastrophic”, adding that the country had delivered a clear message through the ballot box.
“The country has spoken and we must listen,” she wrote, reflecting on the implications of the results for her party and government.
Davies-Jones also referenced the time spent in opposition prior to forming government, noting: “We waited 14 years to get into power and change the lives of those we represent.” Her comments underscored the sense of frustration and urgency contained within her resignation statement, as she indicated a need for a change in approach following the electoral setbacks.
She further called for a shift in political direction, stating: “The time now is for bold, radical action.” The remark signalled her view that a different strategy is required in response to the electoral outcomes.
In a more personal note addressed in the letter, she added: “I know you to be a good and honest man,” closing her message on a conciliatory tone despite the decision to step down.
Davies-Jones’ resignation comes amid wider scrutiny of recent election results affecting parties across the United Kingdom, with losses in both devolved and national contests prompting internal reflection among senior political figures.
Her departure marks a notable change within the Ministry of Justice’s junior ministerial team, particularly in the portfolio covering victims and efforts to tackle violence against women and girls. The resignation adds to ongoing political pressures following the reported electoral setbacks.
The government has not issued a detailed response to her resignation letter at this stage. However, the tone of Davies-Jones’ statement suggests her decision was driven primarily by the scale of the electoral results and their political implications.