John Whittingdale: Culture secretary reveals relationship with sex worker

Culture Secretary John Whittingdale has revealed he had a relationship with a sex worker.

He claimed he did not know her real occupation and ended the relationship as soon as he found out when he was approached by a journalist in February 2014.

ITV News Political Editor Robert Peston said the revelations raised questions over Mr Whittingdale's role in regulating the press when he knew that newspapers had been aware of the relationship for some time.

Mr Whittingdale, who was appointed secretary of state for culture, media and sport in May 2015 - insisted it had no impact on any decisions he made.

• Peston on questions raised by Whittingdale story

A Downing Street official told ITV News that Mr Whittingdale's job was not in jeopardy and that he was "entitled to a private life".

In a statement, Mr Whittingdale said: