Homelessness minister quits over rent hike claims
In a letter to Sir Keir Starmer, the Labour MP insisted she had 'at all times' followed 'all legal requirements' and taken her responsibilities 'seriously'.
But she added: 'It is clear that continuing in my role will be a distraction from the ambitious work of the government.
'I have therefore decided to resign from my ministerial position.'
In response, the Prime Minister thanked Ms Ali for her 'diligent work' at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, saying it would have 'a lasting impact'.
He said: 'I know you will continue to support the Government from the backbenches and represent the best interests of your constituents in Bethnal Green and Stepney.'
Ms Ali's resignation follows reports in The i Paper that she had given four tenants at a property she owned in east London four months' notice to leave last November, and had then re-listed the property with a £700 rent increase within weeks.
Conservative Party chairman Kevin Hollinrake had called for her resignation earlier on Thursday, accusing her of 'staggering hypocrisy'.
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