Greek government hit by fresh resignation as Giorgos Vernicos departs

Giorgos Vernicos announced his resignation today (AP)

A Greek cabinet member has resigned, the latest casualty for the crisis-hit country's new conservative-led government.

State television reported that Giorgos Vernicos, deputy minister for merchant marine, announced his resignation today.

He did not give a reason for his departure, but the opposition has recently accused him of a conflict of interest.

Yesterday, the designated finance minister resigned due to illness. New Prime Minister Antonis Samaras himself is recovering from a weekend eye operation.