Boris Johnson is without a dozens of senior and junior ministers this morning, but an ally has told MPs that the "business of Government continues"
Cabinet Office minister Michael Ellis said those left in Government were being supported "by our excellent civil service", but Labour warned the Tories were putting the country in danger.
Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner said: "No ministers in place to pass legislation, Bill committees cancelled with no-one to run them,” Ms Rayner said, asking if 11 committees due to take place on Thursday will go ahead.
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"Without ministers, what are the arrangements to pass primary and secondary legislation? And who will answer oral questions? How will this Government continue to be democratically held to account?”
She said there is not a single MP in the Department for Education, asking: “What does this mean for children taking their exams? What does this mean for the impending childcare cost crisis?
“Our British national security is at risk too, not least because the Prime Minister thinks he can stay on. With the departure of the Northern Ireland Secretary, only two ministers are left able to sign security warrants to approve secret service use of sensitive powers. What contingency plans are in place to deal with emergencies in the short-term?”
Mr Ellis responded: “As the House will be aware, it is widely reported that the Prime Minister is about to make an important statement shortly.
“I can confirm that it is correct that the Prime Minister will speak shortly. I cannot pre-empt the Prime Minister’s statement and the House and nation will hear more imminently.
“In the meantime, the business of Government continues, supported in the usual way by our excellent civil service. There will be continue to be ministers of the crown in place including in all great offices of state. We must continue to serve our country, constituents and the general public first and foremost.”
A Number 10 source said the Prime Minister would soon be announcing new ministers to fill the vacated roles.
However, due to the sheer number of vacancies and the number of MPs saying they are unwilling to serve, many are sceptical Mr Johnson will be able to form a working Government.
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