Kate Beecroft has resigned as Minister for Health and Social Care.

LibVan leader Mrs Beecroft, who was appointed to head up the department in October 2016, decided to step down following a meeting with Chief Minister Howard Quayle yesterday (Tuesday).

Mr Quayle said: ’I understand Mrs Beecroft’s decision to relinquish her position as Minister for Health and Social Care.

’I called the meeting yesterday to have a full and frank conversation on a wide range of political and department issues, including the resignation of two departmental members. Following that meeting, I have today received and accepted the Minister’s resignation.’

He added: ’I wish to place on record my thanks for her hard work over the past 14 months. Kate is passionate in her political convictions and has sought to put the island’s health service on a sustainable footing for the next generation.’

Mr Quayle said a new Minister for Health and Social Care will be appointed soon.

Mrs Beecroft resignation follows that of two political members from the cash-strapped DHSC - Rob Callister and Clare Bettison.

The announcement of Mrs Beecroft’s resignation was emailed to the media at 5.31pm today, missing - some might conclude deliberately - the deadline for tomorrow’s Manx Independent.