Solomons' PM to face vote of no confidence

The Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Manessah Sogavare, is to face a vote of no confidence in the Honiara parliament.

Support for Mr Sogavare has waned following the political row over the now-suspended Attorney General, Julian Moti, who is facing child sex offences in Australia.

Mr Moti was suspended last night by the Solomon's Public Service Commission until further notice, however Prime Minister Sogavare insists he has the final say.

Mr Sogavare's leadership is on the line over his efforts to help Mr Moti avoid extradition to Australia and his decision to expel Australia 's High Commissioner to the Solomon's.

Opposition leader Fred Fono says there is enough discontent in Mr Sogavare's coalition government to topple the Prime Minister.

Australia to pursue Moti

Australia's Justice Minister Chris Ellison says national authorities will pursue Mr Moti if he flees Papua New Guinea to the Solomons.

A formal extradition request has been lodged with authorities in PNG.

"In relation to the Solomon Islands, we've made it very clear that we do not think the Solomon Islands Government should offer this man sanctuary and if he goes elsewhere, if he manages to leave Papua New Guinea, we will pursue him."

Mr Moti left the Solomon Islands High Commission building in Port Moresby on Thursday after Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare said he was free to go.

Sir Michael has said Mr Moti's extradition is not Papua New Guinea's concern.

It is understood the Solomon Islands government is urgently working on issuing Mr Moti another passport so he can depart for Honiara.

- RADIO AUSTRALIA