Chris Huhne quits cabinet over speeding claims charge

Chris Huhne has quit as energy secretary after learning he was to be charged with perverting the course of justice over a 2003 speeding case.

His ex-wife Vicky Pryce will face the same charge in relation to claims she accepted his penalty points.

Mr Huhne, Lib Dem MP for Eastleigh, said he was innocent but would stand down to “avoid distraction”.

Business Minister Ed Davey will replace him but Nick Clegg said he hoped Mr Huhne could return to government.

Essex Police have been investigating the speeding points claims for eight months.

‘I am innocent’

Director of Public Prosecutions Keir Starmer said the Crown Prosecution Service had concluded there was “sufficient evidence to bring criminal charges against both Mr Huhne and Ms Pryce for perverting the course of justice”.