Al Carns, the former Armed Forces minister, has declined a return to government under Prime Minister Andy Burnham, stating that the dispute over adequate defense funding remains unresolved. Carns, a former Royal Marine, resigned from the Ministry of Defence last month.
His departure, along with that of former defence secretary John Healey, contributed to Prime Minister Keir Starmer's eventual downfall. While Healey has now been appointed Chancellor by Burnham, Carns has opted not to take up a new ministerial post, despite reportedly being offered the role of prisons minister.
In a social media post, Carns explained his decision, stating, "I had a good conversation with the Chief Whip today where she offered me a return to Government. After careful thought, I declined, with respect and with thanks."
Carns reiterated his reasons for resigning in June, emphasizing that he did not believe the available defense funding was sufficient for the nation's security needs. He added, "I've always said I would serve where I am asked. In normal circumstances, that is exactly what I would do, but the argument I resigned over has not yet been settled."
He believes that accepting a role in another department would imply the funding issue has been resolved. Carns stated his intention to continue advocating for increased defense spending from the backbenches. He noted that Healey's appointment as Chancellor is significant, as Healey also resigned over the same funding concerns and is committed to addressing them. Carns welcomed Healey's appointment, calling it "meaningful."
In other departures from the government, Natalie Fleet resigned as safeguarding minister, citing the role as "overwhelmingly triggering." Mike Tapp will no longer serve as the Home Office minister for migration. Environment minister Mary Creagh and early education minister Olivia Bailey also announced their departures as Burnham conducts a reshuffle.