The Director of Public Prosecutions has this morning announced that the Energy Secretary, Chris Huhne, is to face criminal charges in connection with a speeding offence committed on March 12, 2003. Huhne is expected to step down as a result of the ruling, sparking concern over the future of the UK’s renewable energy industry.
The cabinet minister’s ex-wife Vicky Pryce is also expected to face the charge of perverting the course of justice over allegations she took speeding penalty points on his behalf. Both are due to appear before Westminster magistrate’s court on February 16.
Huhne has always denied the allegations.
As Huhne moves to resign from his post, a cabinet reshuffle is expected. Last night, Employment Minister Ed Davey was being lined up as his replacement, with Liberal Democrat MP and Senior Clegg aide Norman Lamb likely to take over his post at the Department of Business.
At present it is not known how this news will affect the future of renewable energy in the UK. Many working in the solar industry have suggested that Huhne’s resignation will be a positive move, while others comment that his removal will come as bad news to the green businesses which have appreciated his support in recent years.
Update
In a brief statement to press, Huhne commented on this morning’s news saying the CPS decision is “deeply regrettable” and he “intends to fight this in the courts”.
“To avoid any distraction, I am standing down and resigning as Energy Secretary. I will continue to serve my constituents in Eastleigh,” he said.
Huhne still maintains that he is “innocent of the charges”.
The Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) is yet to confirm who will replace him.