China has expelled disgraced politician Bo Xilai from the country's top legislature, paving the way for criminal proceedings against him.

China's official Xinhua News Agency says the Standing Committee of Chongqing's Municipal People's Congress has decided to remove Bo from his post as deputy to the 11th National People's Congress.

Delegates to that body have immunity from arrest and prosecution.

Bo's removal is largely a formality after he was ousted from the Communist Party on Friday, accused of crimes including taking bribes and abusing his power.

Bo's fall from grace has been spectacular. He had been a prime candidate for a top post in China's leadership until a scandal broke involving his wife's murder of a British businessman.