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Wells MP quits as aide over fracking

The Liberal Democrat MP for Wells has quit as parliamentary aide to Business Secretary Vince Cable after voting against the Government on fracking.

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Lib Dem MP for Wells quits as aide over fracking

Tessa Munt has quit her job as aide to Vince Cable after voting against the Government on fracking Credit: PA

The MP for Wells has quit her job as parliamentary aide to Business Secretary Vince Cable after voting against the Government on fracking.

Liberal Democrat Tessa Munt had said she intended to stay on, despite backing calls to suspend the controversial technique but a spokesperson for the Cabinet minister says her resignation has been accepted.

Ms Munt said she had restated her opposition to fracking, adding: "I am unwilling to compromise and cannot change my opposition to fracking.

"I will continue to campaign vocally against fracking and as result it is clear that my views cannot be reconciled with the Government on this matter.

"I will continue to defend and represent this beautiful part of Somerset, its residents, businesses with all the enthusiasm and energy that I have had since May 2010 when I became the Member.

"My campaign to stop fracking in Somerset continues."

"Tessa Munt has resigned from her position as parliamentary private secretary (PPS) to Vince Cable.

Both the Secretary of State for Business and the Deputy Prime Minister thank Tessa for the work she has done in government but understand her strength of feeling on this issue and have, therefore, accepted her resignation."

– Spokesperson for Vince Cable
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