He had to go – but it is very bad news for Theresa May.
In normal circumstances Damian Green would not have been able to hang on this long.
But these are not normal times and the Prime Minister was desperate to cling on to her closest political friend. He is more than that to Theresa May though – they have known each other for years and are true friends even away from politics.
The Cabinet is a vipers nest now. Those against May outnumber those who back her. Green was a vital protector.
But don’t expect Green’s departure to unleash another round of chaos in Downing Street. Number 10 is certainly not strong but for the time being – buoyed by the progression to phase two Brexit talks – it is stable.