Republicans vote to keep Gingrich

Putting aside their doubts, Congressional Republicans yesterday unanimously renominated Newt Gingrich for a second term as House Speaker, all but ensuring that he retains the job when a formal floor vote is held next January.

Earlier, some Republicans who blamed Mr Gingrich's unpopularity for the drop in their party's majority at the last election to under 20 seats, had privately sought an alternative. Now the only threat is an Ethics Committee report due to be issued at the turn of the year, which might contain damaging revelations about Mr Gingrich's financial dealings. Rupert Cornwell - Washington