Yahoo News Michael Fallon resigns as defence secretary after admitting past conduct may have 'fallen short'
Sir Michael Fallon has resigned as defence secretary in the wake of allegations about sexually inappropriate behaviour after admitting that his past conduct may have "fallen below" the high standards expected of him .
The Defence Secretary earlier this week admitted that he had put his hand on the knee of a radio presenter at a dinner 15 years ago.
In a letter to the Prime Minister, Sir Michael said: "A number of allegations have surfaced about MPs in recent days, including some about my previous conduct.
"Many of these have been false but I accept 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 added: "I have been fortunate in the opportunity to serve in the Governments of four Prime Ministers, and to have played a part in education reform, including setting up Ofsted, the reduction of red tape for business and the attraction of new investment into energy generation."
Sir Michael admitted the incident had taken place and said he had apologised to broadcaster Julia Hartley-Brewer for his behaviour at the time.
Miss Hartley-Brewer had previously disclosed the incident although she did not name Mr Fallon. She said that at the time she had threatened to punch him in the nose if he did it again.
Unlike other incidents, the Prime Minister did not refer Sir Michael for a Cabinet investigation. The Telegraph understands that there will not be a reshuffle but that Sir Michael will be directly replaced.
A close ally of Sir Michael said earlier this week: “Julia’s a good friend of Michael’s. He overstepped the mark when he put his hand on her knee. She made clear it was unwelcome and he rightly apologised 15 years ago.”
It comes amid a growing sexual harassment scandal at Westminster, with some 40 Conservative MPs being named in a so-called 'dirty dossier' compiled by Tory staff of politicians against whom accusations have been made.
Theresa May has come under pressure from her own party to investigate alleged sexual harassment.
Miss Hartley-Brewer tweeted a statement saying: "I have spoken previously about a Cabinet Minister who repeatedly put his hand on my knee during a party conference dinner.
"I calmly and politely explained to him that if he did it again I would 'punch him in the face'.
"He withdrew his hand and that was the end of the matter.
"I have had no issues since with the man in question and do not regard the incident as anything but mildly amusing, which is why I have declined to name him."
Sir Michael Fallon's letter of resignation as Defence Secretary:
Dear Prime Minister,
A number of allegations have surfaced about MPs in recent days, including some about my previous conduct.
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.
It has been a privilege to have led defence over the past three and a half years.
We are close to defeating Daesh terrorism in Iraq and Syria; we have taken a leadership role in Nato; and we have secured a defence budget that will grow ahead of inflation each year.
I have the utmost admiration for the professionalism, bravery, and service of the men and women who keep us safe.
I have been fortunate in the opportunity to serve in the governments of four prime ministers, and to have played a part in education reform, including setting up Ofsted, the reduction of red tape for business, and the attraction of new investment into energy generation.
I shall continue to support the Government and to work hard for my Sevenoaks constituents.
The Rt Hon Sir Michael Fallon KCB MP
Theresa May's response letter:
Dear Michael,
Thank you for your letter of this evening.
I appreciate the characteristically serious manner in which you have considered your position, and the particular example you wish to set to servicemen and women and others.
As Secretary of State for Defence since July 2014, you have championed our brave armed forces and made sure that the Government has been able to fulfil its most fundamental responsibility: the defence of the realm.
You should take particular pride in the way the United Kingdom has risen to the challenge of tackling the barbaric threat of Daesh.
Thanks to the bravery of our armed forces, Daesh is being defeated, and three million people have been freed from its murderous rule.
This follows a long and impressive Ministerial career - serving in four departments of state under four prime ministers - as well as your distinguished contribution on the Conservative front bench in Opposition, your membership of the Treasury Select Committee, and your role as deputy chairman of the Conservative Party.
You have combined these roles with diligent service to the public in two constituencies - first in Darlington, and then in Sevenoaks - and I know you will continue to represent your constituents in that manner.
On behalf of all those you have helped throughout your time in Government, I thank you for your service.
Yours sincerely Theresa
