Sir Malcolm Rifkind to step down from General Election after cash for access revelations

Sir Malcolm Rifkind said he will step down as MP and that the cash-for-access claims against him are ‘contemptible’.

17:42 24 February 2015

Sir Malcolm Rifkind has announced that he will step down as MP at the General Election and has resigned from his role as chairman of the Intelligence and Security Committee following the recent cash-for-access claims against him.

He said: "This is entirely my personal decision.  I have had no such requests from my constituency association but I believe that it is the right and proper action to take.

"As regards the allegations of Channel 4 and the Daily Telegraph I find them contemptible and will not comment further at this time.

"Although I will retire from Parliament I shall continue my public and political life and am much looking forward to doing so over the years to come."

Meanwhile, the prime minister supports Sir Malcolm’s decision. A spokesman said: "With regard to what Sir Malcolm has said the Prime minister respects and supports Sir Malcom's decisions."

A conservative spokesman added: "Sir Malcolm has had a long career of distinguished service both to the Conservative Party and the country.

"We respect and support his decision to stand down."