Michael Fallon has resigned as defence secretary over past behaviour
Defence secretary Sir Michael Fallon has resigned amid allegations against a number of MPs over sexually inappropriate behaviour, saying his previous conduct had fallen short.
“A number of allegations have surfaced about MPs in recent days, including some about my previous conduct,” Fallon said in a letter to Prime Minister Theresa May.
“Many of these have been false, but I accept that in the past I have fallen below the high standards that we require of the armed forces that I have the honour to represent.
“I have reflected on my position and I am therefore resigning as defence secretary,” he said.
Fallon said he would continue to support the government and work hard for his Sevenoaks constituents.
The PM had earlier this week dodged questions about her confidence in Fallon after he admitted he had inappropriately touched a radio journalist’s knee in 2002, but she did not refer Fallon for an investigation.
May thanked Fallon for his letter tonight. “I appreciate the charictaristically serious manner in which you have considered your position, and the particular example you wish to set to servicemen and women and others.”
“On behalf of all those you have helped throughout your time in government, I thank you for your service,” she said.