US Republican Ney admits bribery

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A senior Republican congressman linked to disgraced former lobbyist Jack Abramoff has pleaded guilty to bribery charges in Washington.

Bob Ney from Ohio admitted offering political favours for money and gifts from Abramoff and his clients.

Mr Ney also pleaded guilty to conspiracy and making false statements.

Abramoff's shady business dealings continue to rock the Republican Party in the run-up to next month's mid-term polls, the BBC's Jonathan Beale says.

Abramoff has admitted to conspiracy to bribe public officials.

A congressional inquiry recently found that he had more extensive contacts with the White House than previously acknowledged.

But White House officials said the report was based on records that were "widely regarded as fraudulent".

The report did not suggest the Bush administration was guilty of impropriety.

Prison term

Mr Ney was asked in court if he had taken money, gifts and favours in return for using his political influence on behalf of Abramoff and his clients.

He pleaded guilty. His lawyer said Mr Ney had made an error in judgement and was ashamed at the way his political career had ended.

Mr Ney is expected to resign his seat in Congress within weeks.

The congressman now faces more than two years in prison and fines of between $5,000 (Â£2,700) and $60,000 (Â£32,300).