Head of British legion resigns amid lobbying flap

LONDON — The Royal British Legion says its president has resigned in wake of a newspaper sting in which retired senior officers were recorded appearing to offer lobbying services on behalf of defense companies.

The Sunday Times reported that officers, including former head of the army Gen. Richard Dannatt and the British Legion’s Lt. Gen. Sir John Kiszely, had boasted about their access to ministers and senior officials.

The officers deny wrongdoing, and the newspaper didn’t suggest they had broken laws. Retired personnel are allowed to work for the private sector two years after leaving the military.

The British Legion, which offers help to service members and their families, said Monday it had received Kiszely’s letter of resignation in which he insisted he never breached government lobbying rules.