Ussher resigned from her ministerial role in 2009 following her involvement in the United Kingdom parliamentary expenses scandal in which it was reported she had taken action on the advice of her accountants to reduce her capital gains tax liability. She did not stand at the 2010 election, citing the desire for a more normal family life while her children were young. Since then, she has worked primarily in public policy thought leadership, at Demos and as Managing Director of Tooley Street Research.