British energy secretary Chris Huhne has resigned today after it emerged he is to face prosecution over allegations he asked his former wife to take a speeding penalty for him.
Mr Huhne confirmed he would quit his ministerial post following this morning's announcement from Director of Public Prosecutions Keir Starmer.
He said the decision to charge him over allegations that he asked his ex-wife to take a speeding penalty for him were “deeply regrettable” and he insisted: “I am innocent of these charges and I intend to fight this in the courts.”
Postal affairs minister Edward Davey is to replace Mr Huhne in the cabinet. Mr Cameron called Mr Davey just before 11am to offer him the job as Mr Huhne’s replacement.
The Liberal Democrat MP has been charged with perverting the course of justice after an investigation into the 2003 incident by Essex Police.
His former wife, the economist Vicky Pryce, is also facing charges of perverting the course of justice. They are due to appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on February 16th.
Mr Starmer said a criminal complaint was made to Essex Police in May 2011, alleging Ms Pryce had accepted responsibility for a speeding offence committed by Mr Huhne in 2003.
Prime Minister David Cameron today said Mr Huhne made “the right decision” in resigning. Speaking in Plymouth, Devon, he said: “I think Chris Huhne has made the right decision, given the circumstances. . . . Obviously I want to thank him for the very good work he has done in Government."
“Now obviously the Government must continue and so I have asked Ed Davey to step up to the cabinet as energy and climate change secretary, and I am sure he will do a very good job.”
PA