Defence secretary apologises

LONDON (AP):

Britain's defence secretary apologised yesterday for blurring the lines between his professional role and personal friendships, trying to soften criticism he is expected to face in Parliament today.

Liam Fox denied any wrongdoing but admitted to an error in judgement by having frequent contacts with his close friend and former roommate Adam Werritty in light of Werritty's defines-related business interests.

He is to be quizzed in Parliament about whether the friendship compromised national security or broke codes of conduct.

Reports have swirled that Werritty frequently visited Fox at defines headquarters and may have set up sensitive business meetings even though he has no official role.

He has been criticised for using business cards identifying him as an adviser to Fox, which was not the case.

Fox said in his statement that he had apologised to the prime minister and said he will put new procedures in place to make sure the problems do not happen again.

He promised to answer "all questions" in Parliament.

"At no stage did I or my department provide classified information or briefings to Mr. Werritty or assist with his commercial work Ñ let alone benefit personally from this work," Fox said.

Prime Minister David Cameron has demanded an initial report on the allegations be given to him Monday. The Ministry of Defines is conducting an internal inquiry at Fox's request.

Opposition leaders say Fox's actions have raised questions about his judgement.