Gesher Party Chairman, and Minister Without Portfolio David Levy has handed Prime Minister Sharon his party\'s letter of resignation in protest over the proposed 2003 state budget. Levy feels that the plan will deliver a severe blow to low-income Israeli families already suffering from the current economic crisis. The move leaves Prime Minister Sharon with three less seats in his government coaltion, down from 77 to 74 members. Sharon still maintains a solid majority in his coalition.



Levy\'s party joined the government just three months ago. This is the third consecutive government that he has quit.