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Leeds councillor Julie Heselwood has apologised after coming under fire over comments about the health of the Prime Minister.

Writing on Facebook, the Leeds representative claimed Boris Johnson is only in hospital as "a publicity stunt".

Mr Johnson was admitted to hospital in London on Sunday and transferred to intensive care the following evening.

Mrs Heselwood, replying to a post by radio host Ryan Swain, added: “It’s a publicity stunt - they we’re [sic] doing badly being criticised for their handling of this, next thing he’s in hospital in ICU-a publicity stunt fir [sic] sympathy and to change the narrative. Don’t fall for it”

Others to comment on the post hit out at her with one saying: "With a comment like that, you're not fit to be a Councillor for any party!"

The Labour councillor replied to another saying: "I just understand politics."

However, she has since rowed back from the comments and removed them from Facebook.

Cllr Heselwood has written to the leader of Leeds City Council to say: "I am deeply sorry for my crass and offensive comments about Boris Johnson's hospital treatment.

"I was wrong, I should never have made that claim and I apologise unreservedly.

"I wish the Prime Minister a speedy recovery and my thoughts are with him and his family at what I know is a very difficult time for them."

A Labour party spokesperson said: “Leeds City Council is working round the clock in one of the country’s largest districts to respond to this global public health crisis.

"All Labour councillors are doing what they can to keep services running, keep people safe and support their communities.

“Julie Heselwood fully accepts her post was wrong and has apologised unreservedly for it.”

Earlier today, Downing Street revealed Mr Johnson's condition “continues to improve” in intensive care where he has spent three nights while being treated for the coronavirus.

The Prime Minister had a “good night” in St Thomas’ Hospital and thanks the NHS for the “brilliant care” he has received, his official spokesman said.

He was said to be continuing with “standard oxygen treatment”, while it was indicated he has not taken part in any drug trials for Covid-19.

Mr Johnson was last seen in public clapping for NHS workers in Downing Street last Thursday before his admission to hospital three days later.

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, who has been deputising for the PM, was expected to instead take part in the show of support for health staff.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced the first big breakthrough in Mr Johnson’s health on Thursday, when he said the PM was now “sitting up in bed” and “engaging positively” with medics.