Northern Ireland born Tory MP Conor Burns dismissed from government after complaint of 'serious misconduct'

A Number 10 spokesperson said: “Following a complaint of serious misconduct, the PM has asked Conor Burns MP to leave the government with immediate effect.

"The PM took direct action on being informed of this allegation and is clear that all ministers should maintain the high standards of behaviour.”

It is understood the complaint was made to the Whips' Office last night about an incident which took place during the Conservative Party Conference in Birmingham earlier this week.

Mr Burns, who was born in Belfast and moved to Hertfordshire at a young age, has said he will “fully cooperate with the investigation and looks forward to clearing his name”.

The MP for Bournemouth West was made Minister of State for Northern Ireland in 2021 before taking on the position of Trade Minister.