UK:A second member of the British government resigned yesterday in protest at proposals to replace the Trident nuclear deterrent.
Sources close to Jim Devine confirmed he had quit his post as parliamentary aide at the Department of Health.
It is understood the MP for Livingston, who entered parliament after the by-election caused by the death of former foreign secretary Robin Cook, hopes to speak during the Trident debate in the Commons today.
The news comes just a day after deputy leader of the house Nigel Griffiths quit so he could vote against the government on the issue.
Scores of Labour MPs are believed to be prepared to defy the prime minister over his plans to replace Trident.
More than 100 MPs, including more than 60 from Labour, backed moves yesterday to delay making a decision by signing up to an amendment which would be put forward during today's Commons debate. - ( PA )