Braintree MP Brooks Newmark has resigned as a government minister over tabloid allegations about his private life.
According to reports, the Sunday Mirror has obtained pictures, said to relate to social media, and will publish the details in tomorrow's edition.
Mr Newmark was only handed the role of minister for civil society in July during the summer cabinet reshuffle. His place will be taken by Rob Wilson.
In a statement, made after his resignation was accepted, he said: "I have decided to resign as Minister for Civil Society having been notified of a story to be published in a Sunday newspaper.
"I would like to appeal for the privacy of my family to be respected at this time.
"I remain a loyal supporter of this Government as its long term economic plan continues to deliver for the British people."
It comes as a blow to the Conservatives, hours after MP Mark Reckless announced he was defecting to UKIP, forcing a by-election in Rochester and Strood.
