Huhne facing jail over points lie (From Herald Series)
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Huhne facing jail over points lie
4:29pm Monday 4th February 2013 in National News © Press Association 2013
Former energy secretary Chris Huhne and his partner Carina Trimingham arrive at Southwark Crown Court
Chris Huhne is facing jail and the humiliating end to his political career after he admitted he lied to avoid a speeding penalty.
After nearly two years proclaiming his innocence and fighting to have the case dropped, the former energy secretary pleaded guilty on the eve of his trial to making ex-wife Vicky Pryce accept points on his behalf.
The 58-year-old immediately announced he was standing down from parliament - sparking a by-election in marginal Eastleigh that could test coalition relations to the limit - and voluntarily removing himself from the Privy Council.
Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg said he was "shocked and saddened" by the news, but added that Huhne was doing the right thing by quitting the Commons.