Early years workforce pays tribute to children's minister after surprise resignation

Many of those working in the sector said they were sad to see her go and praised her work, describing her as a 'champion' for high-quality early childhood education and childcare and admiring her dedication to delivering Sure Start children's centres and the Early Years Foundation Stage.

Critics of the EYFS, the Open Eye campaign, also praised her energy and commitment.

Ms Hughes announced on Tuesday that was stepping down at the next election for 'family' reasons and will leave Government after the next reshuffle, which is expected early next week.

Ms Hughes has been minister for children and families since 2005.

In a letter to the Prime Minister she said, 'I would not have chosen the current appalling climate to announce my decision when so many members are resigning for reasons to do with their Parliamentary allowances. I want to make it absolutely clear that this has nothing whatsoever to do with my decision or the reason for making it public now.'

The letter added, 'There are a number of personal and family issues which, taken together, are such that I cannot make the commitment to be in Parliament and away from home for a further five years beyond the next General Election. I now want to be at home much more than being a minister or MP will ever allow.'

Children's secretary Ed Balls said Ms Hughes had been an 'outstanding' children's minister.

'While I am sorry she has chosen to stand down, I very much understand the family reasons for Beverley's decision,' he said. 'She will be hugely missed in her current role by this Department and by the stakeholders she has worked with, whom I know have huge respect and admiration for all that she has achieved. But I know she will continue to take a close interest in the children's agenda and has a great contribution to make in the future.'

COMMENTS FROM THE CHILDREN'S SECTOR