Former defence minister Al Carns has said he will not return to government, confirming that he turned down an offer to serve under Prime Minister Andy Burnham.
Carns had previously resigned after the departure of John Healey as defence secretary, in a dispute linked to military funding. His latest decision suggests he is unwilling, at least for now, to re-enter ministerial office following that row.
The move keeps attention on the political fallout from the defence spending argument, which has already led to high-profile resignations. Carns's refusal to join the new administration may also raise further questions about unity and confidence around defence policy.
While the full details of the offer and his reasoning have not been set out here, the announcement makes clear that Carns is choosing to stay out of Burnham's government despite being approached for a role.
