London: Britain's energy and climate change secretary Chris Huhne says he has quit the UK government after being charged with attempting to dodge a speeding penalty.
Huhne said Friday the decision to charge him with an offense of perverting the course of justice was "deeply regrettable.''
"I am innocent of these charges and I intend to fight this in the courts and I am confident a jury will agree,'' Huhne said.
Huhne is alleged to have persuaded his now ex-wife, economist Vicky Pryce, to accept a speeding penalty on his behalf in 2003, to escape a driving ban.
Pryce also faces a charge of perverting the course of justice.
Prime Minister David Cameron's office did not immediately say who would replace Huhne.
Bureau Report
First Published: Friday, February 03, 2012, 20:41