Politics

James Brokenshire recovers from surgery

Former secretary of state James Brokenshire is recovering after undergoing surgery for a lung condition
Former secretary of state James Brokenshire is recovering after undergoing surgery for a lung condition Former secretary of state James Brokenshire is recovering after undergoing surgery for a lung condition

FORMER secretary of state James Brokenshire has undergone surgery to treat a lung condition.

The Conservative MP resigned from the cabinet earlier this month after a lesion was discovered on his right lung.

He has since been replaced as secretary of state by Karen Bradley.

Mr Brokenshire has said he realised something may be wrong after he had and “odd niggle with my lungs that was out of the ordinary that I wasn't happy with”.

The 50-year-old took to Twitter at the weekend to reveal he has gone undergone surgery to treat the condition and posted a picture of himself giving the thumbs up.

“Discharged from hospital this morning after my lung surgery,” he tweeted.

“The NHS doctors, nurses and support staff were absolutely outstanding and I could not have been in better hands.

“One hard step done but now the steady recovery and recuperation ahead.

“Will be taking things steadily.”

Alliance Party leader Naomi Long also took to Twitter to offer her best wishes to Mr Brokenshire.

"Great to see you looking so well and glad the surgery went smoothly.,” she said.

“Take it easy and get plenty of rest and hopefully you'll be back to full health soon.”

UUP leader Robin Swann said: “Wishing you a speedy and full recovery.”

Speaking last week the politician said he was aware he would be unable to continue in his role after his condition was discovered.

“When I was told I was very clear that I could not deal with this while remaining a member of the government,” he told Sky News.

“I couldn't see how I could continue to give the effort and the energy required for front-line politics, particularly given the current challenges in Northern Ireland.”