Blunkett expected to resign

David Blunkett is expected to resign as the UK's Work and Pensions Secretary today following controversy over his business dealings.

His appearance before a select committee of MPs was cancelled today, and its chairman, Labour MP Terry Rooney, said: “There will be a statement from No 10 – you can work out what that means.”

A Downing Street spokeswoman said: "We are unable to comment at the moment.''

Mr Blunkett later arrived in Portcullis House, part of the House of Commons, and took refuge from journalists in a private room.

He had been due to appear before the select committee there.

Downing Street sources said an announcement on Mr Blunkett’s future was expected at around 11am – an hour before British Prime Minister Tony Blair faces MPs at Prime Minister’s Question Time.