The US Vice President Dick Cheney said this evening his indicted ex-chief of staff, Mt Lewis Libby, was presumed innocent until a contrary finding is made by a jury.
In a written statement, Mr Cheney said he had accepted Mr Libby's resignation earlier today with deep regret.
"In our system of government an accused person is presumed innocent until a contrary finding is made by a jury after an opportunity to answer the charges and a full airing of the facts. Mr Libby is entitled to that opportunity," he said.
Mr Cheney called Mr Libby "one of the most capable and talented individuals I have ever known" and said the top aide had resigned in order to fight the charges against him.
"Because this is a pending legal proceeding, in fairness to all those involved, it would be inappropriate for me to comment on the charges or on any facts relating to the proceeding," Mr Cheney said.