Australian court disqualifies Deputy PM Barnaby Joyce over citizenship

"When that time comes, I will make sure I get off the horse with dignity and walk to the rail", he said. His father was born in New Zealand and, despite being born in Australia and having never applied for NZ citizenship, the country claimed him as a citizen - ultimately leading to the High Court's ruling on Friday.

Joyce's citizenship was thrown into doubt in August when it was revealed that he is a New Zealand citizen by reason of descent.

One of the most controversial decisions in question is the relocation of the national pesticides agency from Canberra to Armidale in Mr Joyce's northern NSW electorate.

The former deputy prime minister now must fight a by-election for his seat of New England on December 2. He is expected to win.

The disqualified senators will be replaced by members of their own party without an election, meaning the balance of power will only be affected by Mr. Joyce's situation.

A somewhat shell-shocked Barnaby Joyce has faced the press after learning the High Court has disqualified him from Parliament for being a dual citizen.

"I just get annoyed when people off-the-record - because it's always off-the-record - start making comments about the National Party", he said.

Asked whether he should have stepped down, Mr Joyce said he had strong advice that he would not be ruled ineligible.

This is a stunning decision that cost the government its one-seat parliamentary majority and forced a by-election. 'I'm not going to second-guess the High Court'"I respect their decision".

The deputy prime minister is the main casualty, after being found to have held dual citizenship when he ran for election.

The Australian constitution bans dual citizens...