EATLEIGH is set to hold a byelection following the resignation of MP Chris Huhne today.

Mr Huhne dramatically announced he was stepping down from Parliament after pleading guilty to perverting the course of justice.

The former energy secretary was due to stand trial alongside ex-wife Vicky Pryce on charges that he made her take speeding points on his behalf.

But he dramatically changed his plea as the case was about to open at London's Southwark Crown Court this morning.

Making a statement outside the court afterwards, he said: "Having taken responsibility for something that happened 10 years ago, the only proper course of action for me is to resign my Eastleigh seat in Parliament, which I will do shortly."

Prime Minister David Cameron's official spokesman declined to comment on the former minister's resignation, saying only: "It is a matter for Mr Huhne."

It is the second byelection in the town within 20 years. In 1994 David Chidgey won the seat for the Lib Dems following the death of Stephen Milligan.