The council of ministers has ordered an investigation into allegations of sexual harassment at the education ministry, after a female staffer reported a male colleague, it emerged on Monday.

According to reports, Education Minister Athena Michaelidou tabled the matter to cabinet on November 21, detailing a written complaint she received from a female official working at the ministry.

The woman had reported a male colleague for sexual harassment and discrimination based on gender.

Philenews said the matter had to go before cabinet because due to the public service rules, the officer investigating the case must be of a higher rank than the one which faces the allegations.

The government spokesman was not immediately available for comment, however news reports highlighted the investigation would begin in a matter of days.