Sir Malcolm Rifkind quits saying cash for access allegations are 'contemptible'

Sir Malcolm Rifkind

Sir Malcolm Rifkind is to quit as an MP at the general election amid fresh pressure over cash for access allegations following an undercover sting.

The Conservative former foreign secretary said he had also stepped aside as chair of the parliamentary Intelligence and Security Committee.

The veteran politician said the allegations against him were "contemptible" but that it was better for the party and his Kensington constituency if he did not seek to stand in 2015.