Owen Paterson has announced that he has decided to resign as an MP for North Shropshire following 

In a statement announcing his decision, Mr Paterson said: “I have today, after consultation with my family, and with much sadness decided to resign as the MP for North Shropshire.

“The last two years have been an indescribable nightmare for my family and me.

“The last few days have been intolerable for us.

“Worst of all was seeing people, including MPs, publicly mock and deride Rose’s death and belittle our pain. My children have therefore asked me to leave politics altogether, for my sake as well as theirs.

“I agree with them. I do not want my wife’s memory and reputation to become a political football."

It comes after Boris Johnson promised MPs a fresh vote on Owen Paterson’s suspension for an alleged breach of lobbying rules “as soon as possible” after performing an extraordinary U-turn.

Facing widespread outrage, the Prime Minister backed down on plans to prevent the senior Conservative’s immediate suspension by launching a review of the entire disciplinary system.

The question now remains about what will happen next for Mr Paterson

What will happen now?

Mr Paterson would have been under threat of recall had the vote to suspend him been passed.

Now having voluntarily left his role, a by-election will soon be called to fill the vacant MP spot in North Shropshire.

He had held that seat since 1997, which has been a Conseravtive safe seat for some time.

It is uncertain if Mr Paterson will face any punishment for his lobbying breaches now that he is no longer involved in the Government.