BASINGSTOKE’s MP says Matt Hancock made the “right decision” in resigning as health secretary, adding that any other allegations are “always taken very seriously”.

Following the news of Matt Hancock’s resignation as secretary of state after footage showing him kissing aide Gina Coladangelo was leaked, the Gazette asked Maria Miller the following questions:

  • Do you think Mr Hancock made the correct decision in stepping down from the role? 
  • What would you say to the public who feel betrayed that a government minister did not follow the rules he was setting? 
  • As well as the rule breaches, there have been allegations of corruption surrounding Mr Hancock’s appointment of his aide in a £15,000/year contract. Is this something you would like to see investigated in the interest of transparency? 

Speaking of Mr Hancock's decision to resign on Saturday, she said: “Matt Hancock has set out that he resigned as Secretary of State for Health because he broke social distancing guidance and he has publicly apologised.

“Given the need for everyone to continue to adhere to social distancing until the restrictions are lifted I think he took the right decision.”

The scandal has also again raised questions over the appointment of ministerial advisers and officials in Whitehall, with uncertainty over Mrs Coladangelo being flagged, despite an estimated £15,000 a year pay for 15-20 days work.

Maria Miller continued: “Any other allegations would always be taken very seriously and would be for the Department Health to consider as they have access to the necessary information regarding departmental appointments.”

A No 10 spokesman insisted on Friday that the “correct procedure” had been followed in relation to Mrs Coladangelo’s appointment, but refused to go into further detail.