Santoro quits politics

Disgraced former minister Santo Santoro last night announced his resignation from Parliament — just hours after Prime Minister John Howard became ensnared in the scandal over his share dealings.

Senator Santoro made his shock announcement in an emotional speech to the Senate at 10pm after speaking with Mr Howard earlier in the evening.

"I've advised the Prime Minister tonight, and I wish to advise the Senate, that I will shortly resign from this august institution," Senator Santoro said.

He will resign at the end of this two-week sitting, with the Liberal Party to choose a replacement from Queensland.