Michael Fallon has resigned as defence secretary, it has been announced. In a letter to the prime minister, he admitted his behaviour had “fallen below the high standards” expected of a minister.
Earlier this week, he admitted touching a female journalist’s knee. It is understood that he told the prime minister he could not guarantee further, similar allegations would not emerge in the coming days.
The BBC’s former political editor Nick Robinson has tweeted that he expects a limited reshuffle: “1 up, 1 in”. He also posted this tweet:
Admirer of Fallon says alcohol is a power drug which turns some into a Jekyll & Hyde
— Nick Robinson (@bbcnickrobinson) November 1, 2017
ITV political editor Robert Peston adds:
Sources say Fallon went because what he did with @JuliaHB1 was not a one-off and others he “flirted with” may have been “less understanding” than her. Though no one has yet come forward to complain about him
Give a gift subscription to the New Statesman this Christmas from just £49— Robert Peston (@Peston) November 1, 2017
In his resignation letter, Fallon said that many allegations about his previous conduct were “false” but he had “reflected on his position”.
in her reply, the prime minister Theresa May thanked Fallon for the “characteristically serious manner in which you have considered your position” and expresses hope that he will continue to serve his constituents. She was due to appear at the Spectator’s Parliamentarian of the Year Awards tonight, but has pulled out.
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