Stuart Sterling, the chief executive of the government's Ethics and Integrity Commission, has stepped back from his position. This follows reports that he was investigated in a previous role over alleged sexual misconduct involving female colleagues, resulting in a sanction in one instance.
Mr Sterling was appointed to lead the newly formed commission in October 2025. His role included advising the prime minister on tackling misconduct in public life.
The Sunday Times reported that in 2003, while a junior officer with Northamptonshire Police, Mr Sterling was subject to a "full misconduct hearing" for alleged sexual harassment. A representative for Mr Sterling confirmed a disciplinary process was held in 2002, which he complied with and which resulted in a sanction.
The Sunday Times also reported a later allegation of sexual misconduct against a female colleague in 2008. Mr Sterling's representative denies this incident took place, stating he was never subject to a criminal investigation but the allegation was examined by professional standards. Northamptonshire Police confirmed it holds a digital record of a misconduct process from 2002 but did not comment on the later allegation.
A government spokesperson said: "These are serious allegations. Stuart Sterling has stepped back from his role while we swiftly establish the facts." The Cabinet Office is understood to be examining whether appropriate disclosures of information were made.