FORMER secretary of state James Brokenshire has confirmed his lung cancer has "progressed" and he is starting a new line of treatment.
The 53-year-old Tory MP resigned as security minister in July after telling Boris Johnson that his recovery from lung cancer surgery in February was taking "longer than expected".
On Tuesday he said he was "keeping upbeat" over his condition but "needs space to focus on treatment".
Mr Brokenshire stepped down as the north's secretary of state in January 2018 following his first cancer diagnosis.
Writing on Twitter, the Old Bexley and Sidcup MP said: "Regrettably my cancer has progressed. Am starting a new line of treatment this week and receiving great care from the team at GSTTnhs (Guys' and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust).
"Unwelcome news but keeping upbeat. Cathy and the kids have been amazing and appreciate all the kind messages. Now need space to focus on treatment."
Fellow MPs sent messages of support to Mr Brokenshire, including the Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who wrote: "So sorry to hear James. Our thoughts are with you and your family, and we hope you recover soon."
Health Secretary Sajid Javid said: "Sending you and Cathy all best wishes."
Labour leader Keir Starmer said: "This is very sad news James but glad to hear you're in good hands. Wishing you a speedy recovery and my thoughts with you and your family."
In July, Mr Brokenshire sent a letter to the prime minister announcing he was standing down from the government to "focus on restoring my health", having been diagnosed with the condition two years ago.
Mr Brokenshire was discharged from Guy's Hospital in London in February after a "frustrating resurgence" in the disease required surgery to remove his right lung.
