FALLON ON HIS SWORD
He quits amid sexual harassment scandal
SIR Michael Fallon quit as Defence Secretary last night after being caught up in the Westminster sexual harassment scandal.
The Tory veteran was said to have repeatedly put his hand on journalist Julia Hartley-Brewer’s knee during a party conference dinner in 2002.
Radio host Ms Hartley-Brewer said she had not regarded the incident as “anything but mildly amusing”.
But announcing his resignation, Sir Michael, inset, said: “In recent days allegations have been made about MPs’ conduct, including my own.
“Many of these have been false, but I realise that in the past I have fallen below the high standards that we require of the Armed Forces which I have the privilege to represent.
“I have therefore reflected on my position in Government and I am resigning as defence secretary.
“It has been a privilege to have served as defence secretary for the last three and half years, and I have nothing but admiration for the professionalism, bravery and service of those men and women who keep us safe.”
In her reply to his letter, PM Theresa May said: “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.”
Ms Hartley-Brewer reacted with shock to the announcement. She wrote on Twitter: “Bloody hell. Sir Michael Fallon has just resigned as defence secretary.”