Stephen Crabb resigns as Work and Pensions Secretary citing family concerns

Mr Crabb was recently accused of "hypocrisy" after allegedly sending sexual messages to a woman

The MP withdrew from the Conservative leadership race last week after conceding he did not have adequate support from other MPs within the party (Rex)

Stephen Crabb has resigned as Work and Pensions Secretary, releasing a statement to say the move is "in the best interests of my family".

He was one of four Conservative leadership contenders who lost out to Theresa May, who is in the process of choosing her Cabinet.

"Over the last two years I have had the huge privilege to serve in the Cabinet," he said in a statement. "After careful reflection I have informed the Prime Minister today that, in the best interests of my family, I cannot be part of her governmnet at this time.

"I am grateful to my whole team for their hard work and encouragement. I look forward to supporting the government’s One Nation vision from the backbenches."

Mr Crabb was recently accused of "hypocrisy" after allegedly sending sexual messages to a woman.

The messages allegedly show the devout Christian telling the woman he wanted to kiss her “everywhere” and stating his desire to perform a sex act on her.

The exchanges also allegedly show Mr Crabb discussing the issue of MPs being involved in public scandals, saying: “Most MPs are risk takers to one degree or another. Usually in the areas of money, sex, political opportunism. Add in the adrenalin, the attention u get, and the time away from family… toxic mix.”

Mr Crabb told The Times he had no comment regarding the alleged messages, but defended the remarks he was quoted as making regarding MPs as risk takers, telling the newspaper: “I’ve got nothing to add to that, I mean that’s a true observation isn’t it?”

The MP withdrew from the Conservative leadership race last week after conceding he did not have adequate support from other MPs within the party.