Bruton resigns as Fine Gael leader

John Bruton has resigned as leader of Fine Gael after losing the party's vote of no confidence against him.

The former Taoiseach was outvoted 39-33 at last night's Parliamentary Party meeting at Leinster House. Deputy Bruton had led the party since Alan Dukes left the post in 1990.

The Meath TD's greatest spell came from 1994 to 1997, when he was Taoiseach of the Rainbow Coalition Government.