Ian Diamond, the UK's National Statistician and head of the Office for National Statistics (ONS), has resigned with immediate effect due to health reasons.

His departure follows increasing criticism of the ONS over delays and disruptions in publishing key economic data, raising concerns about the reliability of statistics vital for policymaking.

Deputy National Statistician Emma Rourke will serve as interim head as the agency undergoes a government-initiated review to address performance and cultural issues.