The UK government confirmed on Thursday that Defense Secretary Ben Wallace has resigned after four years in office, as it posed the resignation letter he sent to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

"After much reflection, I have taken the decision to ask that I be allowed to step down. I won my seat in 2005 and after so many years it is time for me to invest in the parts of life that I have neglected, and to explore new opportunities," the letter stated.  

In response, Sunak accepted the resignation, noting that he understands and is aware of his desire "to step down after eight years of exacting ministerial duties" and adding, "You leave office with my thanks and respect".

Wallace was appointed as defense chief in 2019 when Boris Johnson was prime minister.  

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Sunak was initially informed of his decision on June 16, and Wallace intended to make a formal announcement later in the summer. However, due to a leak to the media regarding his intentions, he decided to reveal his plans earlier than expected.

"I'm not standing next time," Wallace disclosed to The Times regarding the forthcoming general election in the United Kingdom. He also ruled out any deliberate premature resignation in order to trigger a by-election.

Moreover, the defense secretary mentioned that his next endeavor might involve a complete departure from both politics and defense.