Former Northern Ireland Secretary James Brokenshire has said he will be taking leave after doctors found a recurrence of a tumour in his right lung.
The Security Minister, who is MP for Old Bexley and Sidcup, previously stood down from his role as Northern Ireland Secretary in January 2018 to undergo surgery to remove a cancerous tumour from his right lung.
This morning, he tweeted: "Frustratingly, have a recurrence of a tumour in one part of my right lung. Taking leave for curative surgery.
"In good hands with the fantastic #NHS team who've been looking after me.
"Keeping positive and blessed to have the love of Cathy & the kids to support me through this."
Frustratingly, have a recurrence of a tumour in one part of my right lung. Taking leave for curative surgery. In good hands with the fantastic #NHS team who've been looking after me. Keeping positive and blessed to have the love of Cathy & the kids to support me through this. pic.twitter.com/sNChNHXodQ
— James Brokenshire (@JBrokenshire) January 11, 2021
Northern Ireland First Minister Arlene Foster tweeted that she was "very sorry" to hear about Mr Brokenshire's illness.
"We will be thinking about you and the family. Best wishes. Look forward to seeing you back at the XO (EU exit operations) meetings."
British Health Secretary Matt Hancock joined other cabinet colleagues in wishing Mr Brokenshire well.
He tweeted: "So sorry to hear this James. Sending my best wishes for a speedy recovery."
Mr Brokenshire's ministerial boss, Home Secretary Priti Patel, said she was "saddened" by the news.
"All my thoughts and prayers are with James and his family during this time," she said.
"All colleagues across government send James our love and best wishes and we look forward to having him back soon."
