Minister resigns after wife's death

THE EARL of Caithness, Minister for Aviation and Shipping, resigned last night following the death of his wife, Diana. He said that he wished to devote more time to their two children.

The countess was found dead in a bedroom at the family home in Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire, on Saturday night, on the eve of their 19th wedding anniversary. Thames Valley police said: 'No one is being sought in relation to this tragic death, which is now a matter for the coroner.'

The 45-year-old peer has been probably the most hard-working minister in the Lords for several years, serving several departments. His departure from the front bench will be a severe blow for the Prime Minister. Lord Caithness began his ministerial career in 1984.