Michael Fallon resigns: Read the Defence Secretary's resignation letter in full

Accusations of sexual misconduct have surrounded Sir Michael after he admits to feeling a female journalist’s knee in 2002

Sir Michael Fallon (PA)

Sir Michael Fallon, has resigned as Defence Secretary, saying his behaviour in the past may have "fallen short" in a letter to Prime Minister Theresa May.

It comes as harassment allegations continue to swirl around Westminster.

Accusations of sexual misconduct have surrounded Sir Michael in recent days after he admitted to feeling a journalist Julia Hartley Brewer's knee in 2002.

Here is his resignation letter in full:

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