Former SA opposition leader resigns from parliament as court date approaches

Former South Australian opposition leader David Speirs has resigned from state parliament via email.

The abrupt end to his six-year political career comes ahead of his court date next month on drug charges. The charges are unrelated to the infamous white powder video scandal that sparked a political firestorm.

Speirs' resignation landed in the speaker's inbox just before question time today.

READ MORE: 'Great bloke': Australian TV legends pay tribute to George Negus

"It has been the greatest privilege of my life to serve my community as a representative in the House of Assembly," he said. 

"I wish all members success as they seek to do their very best for the state of South Australia."

Spiers' seat of Black will be declared vacant tomorrow, paving the way for a by-election as early as November 16 – just one day after Speirs' court appearance.

This article was produced with the assistance of 9ExPress.