The longest serving Labor MP of Indian origin in Britain, Keith Vaz has resigned as the Chairman of the Influential House of Commons Home Affairs Select Committee, after he has been named in sex scandal.

Keith Vaz, who served as the chairman of the committee for nine years has apologized for the events on Tuesday and said that he was ‘genuinely sorry’ for what has happened. He added, “Those who hold others to account must themselves be accountable.”

In a statement, Vaz said, “It is in the best interest of Home Affairs Select Committee that its important work can be conducted without any distractions whatsoever. I am genuinely sorry that recent events make it impossible for this to happen if I remain chair.”

He further said, “Those who hold others account must themselves be accountable. I told the committee today of my decision to stand aside immediately from committee business, and my intention to resign. This is my decision, and mine alone, and my first consideration has been the effect of recent events on my family.”

Vaz has recommended Tim Loughton, a senior Conservative party MP to chair the committee’s proceedings till the formal elections of the chair take place.

He said in the statement, “After speaking to the House authorities, I will formally tender my resignation to Mr. Speaker so that it coincides with the time table for the election of other committee chairs, such as the Brexit Committee; Culture, Media and Sport; and Science and Technology, so that the election can take place together.”

Earlier the newspaper tabloid published allegations on Vaz that the married father-of-two had met two male prostitutes from eastern Europe at his London flat last month. The tabloid further alleged that Vaz had told the escorts to bring party drug known as ‘Poppers’ and quoted as discussing the possibilities of paying for cocaine at a future meeting. However, the tabloid added that he would not take the drug himself.

Kieth Vaz may need to face the possible investigations by the House of Commons’ watchdog. However, Labor Party still, seems to be standing by Vaz. Party leader Jeremy Corbyn said, “Well, he hasn’t committed any crime that I know of. As far as I am aware it is a private matter, and I will obviously be talking to Keith.”

By Prajakt K.