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A Government minister and member of the House of Lords has dramatically resigned after he arrived late to answer questions in the chamber.

Michael Bates was scheduled to answer a question from Labour’s Baroness Lister at 3pm but was late and missed it.

He arrived at the end of the session and said he was “ashamed” of his “discourtesy” and announced that he would be offering his resignation to the Prime Minister.

Lord Bates then left the chamber amid cries of “no” from his stunned colleagues.

A spokesman for Number 10 said the resignation was "unnecessary" and that he would be continuing in his role.

The international development minister and former Conservative MP said: "During the five years it's been my privilege to answer questions from this despatch box on behalf of the government.

"I've always believed we should offer, rise, to the highest possible standards of courtesy and respect in responding on behalf of the government to the legitimate questions of the legislature.

"I'm thoroughly ashamed of not being in my place and therefore I shall be offering my resignation to the prime minister with immediate effect. I do apologise."

Baroness Smith, Labour's leader in the Lords, responded after Lord Bates has left, saying: "An apology from the noble Lord Bates is perfectly sufficient. It was a minor discourtesy of which any of us could be guilty of on occasion."

A spokesman for the prime minister said: "With typical sincerity, Lord Bates today offered to tender his resignation, but his resignation was refused as it was judged this was unnecessary.

"As a hard-working and diligent minister, it is typical of his approach that he takes his responsibilities to Parliament so seriously.

"He has received support from across the House and we are pleased he has decided to continue in his important roles at the Department for International Development and HM Treasury."