UK defence secretary Michael Fallon resigns over sexual harassment allegation

British Defence Secretary Michael Fallon has resigned following a highly-publicised allegation of sexual harassment, the defense ministry said on Wednesday.

A ministry spokesman has confirmed Fallon's resignation, while he was quoted in a statement as saying that behavior may have "fallen short".

Fallon had previously apologised for putting his hand on a political journalist's knee in 2002. 

"Many of these have been false but I accept that in the past I have fallen below the high standards that we require of the armed forces that I have the honour to represent," he said.

"I have reflected on my position and I am therefore resigning as defence secretary."

May replied in a letter saying she appreciated "the characteristically serious manner" in which Fallon had considered his position and "the particular example you wish to set to servicemen and women and others".