BEIS has not yet named Griffiths’ replacement however he has been removed from the government department’s homepage.

Griffiths became small business minister in January 2018, succeeding Margot James who held the role from July 2016. Previously he was government whip to the Lord Commissioner of the Treasury. While at BEIS he set up a consultation into the future of Scottish limited partnerships following abuse of the system.

In a statement he said: ‘I am deeply ashamed at my behaviour which has caused untold distress to my wife and family, to whom I owe everything, and deep embarrassment to the Prime Minister and the government I am so proud to serve.

'I tendered my resignation as Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Small Business on Friday night.

‘Following discussions with the Chief Whip I have referred myself to the Conservative Party’s Code of Conduct procedures.’

Report by Amy Austin