Julia Hartley-Brewer ‘shocked’ by Sir Michael Fallon’s resignation Political journalist Julia Hartley-Brewer, who was touched on the knee by Sir Michael Fallon, has said she is “incredibly shocked” […]

Political journalist Julia Hartley-Brewer, who was touched on the knee by Sir Michael Fallon, has said she is “incredibly shocked” by his resignation.

“If this is over ‘kneegate’ – him touching my knee 15 years ago and me not having any issue with it today – this is the most insane, absurd and ridiculous resignation of a Cabinet minister ever,” she told Sky News.

“However, I don’t think that is the reason.”

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‘Overstepped the mark’

The TalkRadio presenter said Sir Michael had apologised to her on Monday after it emerged he “overstepped the mark” with her at a Conservative Party conference dinner in 2002.

The Prime Minister said she appreciated the “characteristically serious manner “ in which Sir Michael had considered his position after receiving his letter of resignation.

She added: “You have championed our brave armed forces and made sure that the Government has been able to fulfil its most fundamental responsibility: the defence of the realm.”

But Liberal Democrat spokesman for home Affairs Alistair Carmichael MP said Sir Michael’s resignation was indicative of a Government crumbling.

“If this is over ‘kneegate’ – him touching my knee 15 years ago and me not having any issue with it today – this is the most insane, absurd and ridiculous resignation of a Cabinet minister ever.” Julia Hartley-Brewer

‘Government falling apart’

He said: “Theresa May’s Government is falling apart at the seams. As we face the biggest negotiations in the modern history of this country her Cabinet can’t even agree to sit around the same table.

“Theresa May lacks the authority to lead this country and her government is in meltdown. She has to change or leave. There are no other options.”

Labour MP John Mann said: “Fallon won’t be the last person who is a casualty of this Westminster sexual harassment scandal”.

Political analysts said last night that Sir Michael’s decision to resign added to pressure on fellow Cabinet colleague Damien Green who faces an inquiry into allegations he behaved inappropriately.