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The minister for small business Andrew Griffiths has resigned from the Government after sending depraved social media messages to two female constituents.

The contents of the texts have been revealed exclusively in the Mirror.

Married Griffiths, 47, the Tory MP for Burton, and Theresa May's former chief of staff, released a statement to the newspaper saying how sorry he was for what he has done.

It reads: "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.

"Following discussions today with the Chief Whip I have referred myself to the Conservative Party’s Code of Conduct procedures.

"I entirely accept that pending this investigation it is right the Whip is withdrawn.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.

"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."