Sir Albert Bore, leader of Birmingham City Council has announced he will step down from his post amid growing pressure for him to quit.
Last week, cabinet member James McKay resigned amid claims that he had no confidence in the leadership. Valerie Seabright also quit after Sir Albert replaced Cllr McKay on the cabinet without consultation.
Sir Albert has also faced strong criticism from Birmingham's Independent Improvement Panel - which is due to issue its next report shortly.
A statement issued by Sir Albert said: 'What we need at the moment is some stability rather than the distraction within the council and the media of how long I might remain as leader. This is drawing attention away from the work that the city council needs to drive forward.
'There are several essential items on our agenda for Birmingham at the moment, including the work of the Independent Improvement Panel, the delivery of a Combined Authority and a Devolution Deal with Government, and an agreement on budget parameters which will be necessary to take this council through to 2020. These projects are crucial for the future prosperity and economic security of the city.
'A new voice will see Birmingham through the next period in its history. So it is right for me to step back and take on a different role.'
