Former health minister Godfrey Farrugia said today he has "aggressive cancer of the prostate"

Dr Farrugia, who is the government's whip in Parliament, wrote on Facebook that this required radical surgery or radiotherapy, routinely carried out in a London Hospital.

"As soon as the necessary arrangements are made, I will undergo surgery to eradicate the tumour.

"Hopefully, within 15 days from surgery, I will be up and about delivering my Parliamentary duties with the usual vigour....," he said.

Dr Farrugia thanked the people for their support and good wishes, as well as his surgeon Mr Mattocks and his team, nurses and ancillary staff.