Facts

Kwarteng’s letter to Liz Truss says: “You have asked me to stand aside as your Chancellor. I have accepted.” To which the Prime Minister replies: “I deeply respect the decision you have taken today” 

Kwarteng arrived in London back from the IMF conference in Washington still convinced he was Chancellor. By then Downing Street is reported to have already briefed that he was sacked and was casting around for replacements. Kwarteng’s resignation note states that "you asked me to stand aside as your Chancellor."

Verdict

Some might argue that Kwarteng, by accepting Liz Truss’ request that he resign, had made the decision of his own free will. We disagree.

Liz Truss took the decision, not Kwazi Kwarteng. He had no choice in the matter.

We emailed Liz Truss’ office offering her the chance to respond. The email was received, but no reply.