Labour MP in intensive care with pancreatitis

A LABOUR MP was in intensive care yesterday after being taken ill with acute pancreatitis.

David Cairns, the MP for Inverclyde, is being treated in University College London Hospitals, the Labour Party said.

Mr Cairns, a former Scottish Office minister, became unwell earlier this week.

Shadow Scottish Secretary Ann McKechin said: "Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time and we are thinking of them."

A Scottish Labour spokesman said: "David Cairns, MP, has been taken ill with acute pancreatitis. He is in intensive care in University College London Hospitals.

"Neighbouring MP Jim Sheridan will attend to David's constituency matters while he remains in hospital."

Local MSP Duncan McNeil said: "People in Inverclyde will wish him the speediest possible recovery.

"We look forward to seeing him back sooner rather than later."

Pancreatitis is described by the National Health Service as inflammation of the pancreas, an organ which produces digestive juices.