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Who did the probe?

The PM’s adviser on ministerial standards, Sir Alex Allan, who quit after his findings were ignored.

Why has Sir Alex quit?

It is unprecedented for a minister found to have broken the code not to resign. Sir Alex advised the PM Patel had broken it; he disagreed and overruled him. If Sir Alex’s advice is not heeded, his role is redundant. What is the point of spending months probing claims if the PM – the ultimate arbiter of decisions – just ignores him? Sir Alex clearly thought his position was impossible. Why has PM let Patel stay? Ultimately, the PM values personal loyalty above all else. He and Patel were Vote Leave pals and she supported his leadership bid. He was determined she would not lose her job – especially when many agree with her frustrations about the civil service. She is also a darling of the Conservative grassroots, who the PM needs to keep onside.