Chinese Ruling Party Expels Bo Xilai

Disgraced Chinese Politburo member Bo Xilai

China says disgraced Politburo member Bo Xilai has been expelled from the ruling Communist Party and will face criminal charges.

State media said the charges will include corruption, abuse of power, bribe taking and improper relations with a number of women.

Bo, who had been Communist Party chief in the southwestern city Chongqing, fell from power following a scandal over the murder of British businessman Neil Heywood in November in Chongqing.

Bo's wife and a former police chief were jailed over the case.

China also announced on September 28 that a party congress to select new leaders will be held on November 8.

The party congress, held every five years, is expected to see Hu Jintao step down after 10 years as party boss to be replaced by Xi Jinping.

Based on reporting by AP and AFP