Government communications chief Andy Coulson resigns
Following weeks of speculation, the communications director for the Government, Andy Coulson, has resigned.
Coulson made a statement this morning after coming under increasing scrutiny regarding allegations of phone hacking at the News of the World while he was editor.
The Prime Minister, David Cameron, had continually backed Coulson to remain in his post, but that did not prevent pressure continuing to mount.
Coulson this morning made a 'personal statement' in which he said that he was tired of the continued distraction of the allegations.
His statement read: "I can today confirm that I've resigned as Downing Street director of communications. It's been a privilege and an honour to work for David Cameron for three-and-a-half years.
"I'm extremely proud of the part I've played in helping him reach No 10 and during the coalition's first nine months.
"Nothing is more important than the Government's task of getting this country back on its feet.
"Unfortunately, continued coverage of events connected to my old job at the News of the World has made it difficult for me to give the 110% needed in this role.
"I stand by what I've said about those events but when the spokesman needs a spokesman, it's time to move on.
"I'll leave within the next few weeks and will do so wishing the Prime Minister, his family, and his brilliant and dedicated team the very best for what I'm sure will be a long and successful future in Government.
"The allegations being made surrounded journalists at the News of the World allegedly hacking the mobile phones of prominent people, which led to the suspension of assistant editor Ian Edmonston last month."
Coulson resigned from his role as editor of The News of the World following the incarceration of Clive Goodman, former royal editor at the paper, over further phone hacking allegations.
It is understood that the Government has yet to begin its search for Coulson's successor.