James Cleverly has resigned from his role as a shadow cabinet minister with immediate effect to launch a bid for London Mayor. Cleverly, the Conservative MP for Braintree, will challenge Labour incumbent Sir Sadiq Khan in the May 2028 election.
Cleverly informed party leader Kemi Badenoch of his decision on Thursday, stating that she received the news graciously. His departure from the shadow cabinet comes ahead of the party conferences this autumn, a move understood to clarify his political future. It remains unclear who will succeed Cleverly in his shadow cabinet position, with a reshuffle expected next month.
Sir Sadiq Khan, who is currently serving his third term as London Mayor, has not yet confirmed whether he will seek a fourth term.