Australian House Speaker Peter Slipper has stood aside as he was accused of sexual harassment.
Australian media reported Monday Slipper has decided to step aside until the investigations are completed, strongly denying the allegations made by his former staff member James Ashby.
Ashby, 33, has alleged Mr Slipper, 62, made “unwanted sexual advances” towards him. He has been employed by Slipper since December, 2011.
He says Slipper asked him about his sexual practices and suggested to leave the door open while showering.
Also Slipper asked Ashby to massage his neck, according to the statement.
The Sunshine Coast MP, barrister-turned MP Slipper is married with two children.
As the gay sex scandal has arisen, the opposition threatened the government to carry no-confidence vote if Slipper would not step down.
Prime Minister Julia Gillard said Peter Slipper’s decision to stand aside as Speaker of the House of Representatives was “appropriate.”
With Slipper standing aside, the Labor government would have difficulty in the process of deliberation on the budget as the governing coalition of Greens and independents may go from majority to minority of seats in parliament, local media reported.