by political editor Paul Francis

Ann Widdecombe has resigned from her position as patron of the anti-bullying charity caught up in a row over claims made by Downing Street staff about Gordon Brown.

The Conservative MP for Maidstone and Weald became patron of the National Bullying Helpline last year, but is unhappy the charity has breached confidentiality with its disclosure that Downing Street staff used its helpline.

Ms Widdecombe had admitted she was "considering her
position" but confirmed on Monday night that she was stepping
down.

Ms Widdecombe said: "I regret they went public on it. They may
not have named names but they have named the workplace. It is just
like a priest taking confession and saying he has talked to a
murdered - it immediately starts a hare running.

"Whoever contacts a bullying helpline has to be reassured that
their details will be kept confidential. I can see that this was
done with the best intention but it is putting people in a very,
very difficult position."

She feared with the details now public, Downing Street was
likely to start its own investigations into who may have contacted
the charity - something that may turn into a witchhunt.

"Anyone who contacts a helpline such as this or Childline has to be feel that nobody will give their information away."

Ms Widdecombe also revealed she was aware of allegations made
about potential conflicts of interest within the charity.

Professor Cary Cooper, an expert on workplace stress, and
television presenter Sarah Cawood have also quit the charity.

Prof Cooper said: "One of the things that is really important
for any helpline or any counselling service is to retain
confidentiality of the people calling up," he said.