The brother of under pressure Prime Minister Boris Johnson has resigned from the government's cabinet and as Orpington MP due to "unresolvable tension".

Former long standing Orpington MP, Jo Johnson, made the shock announcement on Twitter moments ago as his brother’s short reign as PM suffered another blow.

Mr Johnson tweeted: "It’s been an honour to represent Orpington for nine years & to serve as a minister under three PMs.

"In recent weeks I’ve been torn between family loyalty and the national interest - it’s an unresolvable tension & time for others to take on my roles as MP & Minister."

Jo had been serving as Minister of State for Universities and he had also served Orpington as an MP for nine years. 

It has been a difficult few days for Britain's new leader after losing an unprecedented three consecutive Commons votes.

Boris has lost his control of Brexit and his brother’s government departure is the latest fallout of a turbulent time in office so far.