British Energy Secretary Chris Huhne has announced he is resigning after being told he will face criminal charges over allegations that his wife took the blame for a speed-driving offense that he had committed.
Huhne said in a short statement that he was innocent and that the decision to charge him was "deeply regrettable."
He added, however, that he decided to resign from Prime Minister David Cameron's government "to avoid any distraction" to his official duties or legal defense.
The alleged offense took place in 2003, and Huhne and his wife have since split.
Huhne and his ex-wife are due to appear in court on February 16.
Compiled from agency reports
Huhne said in a short statement that he was innocent and that the decision to charge him was "deeply regrettable."
He added, however, that he decided to resign from Prime Minister David Cameron's government "to avoid any distraction" to his official duties or legal defense.
The alleged offense took place in 2003, and Huhne and his wife have since split.
Huhne and his ex-wife are due to appear in court on February 16.
Compiled from agency reports