An MP has resigned from his Government role over a vote on Palestine.

Mike Freer, MP for Finchley and Golders Green, resigned from his role as a Parliamentary Private Secretary (PPS) last night over a vote on recognising Palestine.

The House of Commons backed a motion put forward by Grahame Morris, Labour MP for Easington, and amended by former foreign secretary Jack Straw calling for Palestine to be recognised as a state alongside Israel.

Government ministers abstained but Mr Freer resigned so he could oppose the motion.

He said: “I have resigned as a Government PPS to allow me to vote against a motion on Palestinian Statehood. Supporting the two state solution and the peace process whilst not rewarding Hamas is a significant issue for my constituents.”

Matthew Offord, MP for Hendon, also voted against the motion. Theresa Villiers, MP for Chipping Barnet, abstained. 

Mr Freer was PPS to Nick Boles, Minister of State for Skills and MP for Grantham and Stamford.

In a tweet, Mr Boles said: "Very sad my PPS @mikefreermp has resigned so he cd vote with his conscience in debate on Palestine. An honourable decision by a fine man."