FORMER Northern Ireland Secretary of State James Brokenshire has resigned as a minister due to a "longer than anticipated" cancer recovery.
The Tory MP said he was stepping down as British security minister to focus on restoring his health, having been diagnosed with lung cancer two years ago.
Mr Brokenshire, who was secretary of state from 2016 to 2018, was discharged from hospital in February after a "frustrating resurgence" in the disease required surgery to remove his right lung.
In a letter to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, he thanked him for his support during the treatment and praised the "truly amazing" medics who have been working with him.
"My recovery from treatment and return to full duties is, however, taking longer than anticipated," he wrote.
"Given my responsibilities to the public, the government and to Parliament, I have therefore concluded that it is best that I stand down from my ministerial role and focus on restoring my health."
He said he hopes to be able to "serve again in some way in the future".
Mr Johnson responded by offering his full support and to wish Mr Brokenshire a "speedy return to full health".
"I understand entirely your need to step down from your role but look forward to welcoming you back as soon as possible," he added.
He was first elected to the Commons in 2005 and has served as housing secretary, as well as secretary of state for Northern Ireland.
He was appointed as minister of state in the Home Office in February last year.
