St. Marteen Gov\'t loses majority

The ruling party of the Dutch Caribbean territory of St. Maarten has lost its one-seat majority after a convicted politician stepped down.



The Democratic Party cannot now make any decisions unless it has the support of the opposition National Alliance.



Each party has five seats in the legislative council.



Former labor commissioner Louie Laveist said he resigned because he wants to see the creation of a coalition government.



He was recently found guilty of fraud and other offences and is appealing a nine-month prison sentence.



Neither party has said how it plans to fill the eleventh seat.