Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Danny Williams announced Wednesday evening that Natural Resources Minister Ed Byrne has stepped aside because of a review by the auditor general's office.

Williams said he requested Byrne's resignation after Auditor-General John Noseworthy expressed concern over financial records involving the provincial legislature.

Williams did not spell out the nature of the audit or the investigation, but said the office is reviewing a matter that involves other members of the house of assembly.

He did not elaborate, but said the number of MHAs involved is in the "single digits."

Williams told reporters Wednesday evening that Byrne relinquished his cabinet responsibilities that morning.

Williams said the investigation has involved the Commission of Internal Economy, which regulates the legislature.

More to come