Chile's defence minister resigns

Chile's Defence Minister resigned, the government said, the first minister to leave the Cabinet since President Sebastian Piñera took power last year.

Local media said Jaime Ravinet's exit could herald a possible wider Cabinet reshuffle.

Ravinet was embroiled in controversy after saying Chile's armed forces could be reluctant to help in future catastrophes like last year's devastating earthquake if forced to reveal details of military purchases.

Ravinet was referring to requests by a transparency commission that he explained the cost of a military bridge purchased in the wake of February's quake and ensuing tsunamis, which ravaged towns and roads and killed more than 500 people.

"It is a decision I have taken for personal, private reasons," Ravinet told reporters. "Regarding the bridge and transparency commission, we have had a difference of legal opinion on the matter."