David Cameron Misses Prime Minister’s Questions To Be With His Father After Stroke
David Cameron has missed prime minister’s questions after his father suffered a stroke.
“The prime minister was informed this morning that his father Ian is seriously ill after suffering a stroke and heart complications while on holiday in France,” No 10 said.
After talking to doctors at the hospital, the PM decided to fly to be with his father and mother Mary.
Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg stood in for Mr Cameron.
Mr Clegg said he was sure MPs from all parties would want to offer Mr Cameron, his father and their family their “best wishes at this difficult time”.
Wednesday’s session was the first prime minister’s questions since the end of July, when Parliament rose for the summer recess.
In Mr Cameron’s absence, acting Labour leader Harriet Harman also stood down from the half-hour session.
‘Right decision’
She was replaced by shadow justice secretary Jack Straw who said he was “absolutely certain” the prime minister had made the “right decision” to be with his family.
BBC’s political correspondent Laura Kuenssberg said Mr Cameron had often spoken of the close bond between him and his parents.
His father, 77, was born with both legs deformed, and endured repeated operations in an attempt to straighten them and ease his pain.
Despite his disability Ian Cameron forged a successful career as a stockbroker and is a former director of estate agent John D Wood.
The prime minister said before the general election that his father was a “glass half-full” person with a “sense of optimism”.
Downing Street said Mr Cameron’s sister and brother were also travelling to France.
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