Why did David Warburton resign as MP?

David Warburton, a British politician who represents Somerton and Frome in Somerset announced his resignation on Sunday 18 June 2023.

Mr Warburton said the past 14 months since allegations were published in a national newspaper had been “extraordinarily difficult”. He added that the allegations about him had been “malicious”.

He had been accused of taking drugs and making unwanted advances towards two women after they and another woman spoke to the Sunday Times about his conduct. That led to his suspension from the Conservative Party in April 2022.

He announced his resignation in an interview with the Mail On Sunday in which the paper reports him as admitting to taking cocaine after drinking “incredibly potent” Japanese whisky.

David Warburton  added in the interview: “I was set up, but I have been naive and incredibly stupid.” He went on to deny the harassment claims he is accused of.

His immediate departure means the Conservatives will now face a fourth by-election.