Theresa May has stared down a backbench rebellion and won a vote of confidence in a secret ballot of Tory MPs prevailing 200 - 117.

The result, announced by Sir Graham Brady, was greeted by huge cheers.

Read more. 

Vatican City: Pope Francis has removed two cardinals from his informal cabinet amid the Catholic Church's sex abuse and cover-up scandal, shedding embarrassing advisers ahead of a high-stakes Vatican summit on abuse early next year.

The Vatican said on Wednesday that Francis in October had written to Cardinal George Pell and Chilean Cardinal Javier Errazuriz thanking them for their five years of service on the so-called Group of Nine, or C-9.

• Nepean Highway: The road is closed in both directions between Bentons Road, Mornington and Craigie Road, Mount Martha due to a serious collision. Emergency services on scene and directing traffic. Consider The Esplanade, Dunns Road or Racecourse Road as alternatives.

About 30 teenagers were socialising at All Nations Park in Northcote on Sunday when they were approached by a group of up to seven males, who appeared to be Islander and aged between 15 to 18-years-old.

A 17-teen-old boy was bashed and robbed about 9.30pm.

Contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestoppersvic.com.au if you have any information. 

• Brighton: Left-hand lane closed southbound at Martin Street after a pole was hit. Crews on site for repairs.
• King Street: Two lanes are blocked inbound just before La Trobe Street due to a collision. Emergency services are on scene. Only the right lane is open to traffic. Consider Spencer or William Streets as alternatives.