Andrew Griffiths, the minister for small business, has resigned from
the government after being found to have sent more than 2,000 explicit
messages to two women in his constituency.
The Conservative MP for Burton, and Theresa May’s former chief of
staff, released a statement apologising for what he had done, after the
texts were put to him by the Sunday Mirror.
In the statement, the 47-year-old junior minister said: “I am deeply
ashamed at my behaviour which has caused untold distress to my wife and
family, to whom I owe everything, and deep embarrassment to the prime
minister and the government I am so proud to serve.
“I tendered my resignation as parliamentary under secretary of state for small business on Friday night.”
He added that he had referred himself to the Conservative party’s
code of conduct procedures after discussions with the chief whip.
“I entirely accept that pending this investigation it is right the
whip is withdrawn. I wish to apologise to my constituency association
and to the people of Burton I am honoured to represent.”
He said he would be seeking professional help to address his
unacceptable behaviour sending sex texts. “I do not seek to excuse my
behaviour and will be seeking professional help to ensure it never
happens again.
“In time I hope to earn the forgiveness of all those who put their
trust in me and that I have let down so terribly. The prime minister and
the government she leads will continue to have my full support.”
The Sunday Mirror has reported the content of the messages, which it described as “depraved”.
Post From: www.theguardian.com
Post From: www.theguardian.com
EmoticonEmoticon