BBC political editor needs operation to remove bronchial carcinoid tumour and will take time off work over next few weeks

BBC political editor Nick Robinson is being treated for a tumour in his lung, his agent has revealed.

The 51-year-old journalist, who has led the broadcaster’s Westminster coverage since 2005, needs an operation to remove a bronchial carcinoid tumour from his lung.



His agent said Robinson, who is married with three children, would be taking a short period off work over the next few weeks.

“His doctors are aiming to get him back at work in plenty of time to cover the election campaign proper,” his agent said. “He and his family have asked that they now have the space and privacy he needs in order to rest and recover fully before returning to work.”

In a tweet the prime minister, David Cameron, wished the broadcaster “a speedy return”.

Labour leader Ed Miliband also sent his message of support to the journalist: “Best wishes for a speedy recovery. Look forward to seeing you on the campaign trail soon.”



A BBC spokesman said: “Everyone at the BBC wishes Nick a speedy recovery.”

Robinson told his 350,000-plus Twitter followers: “Thank you for the many kind and generous messages. Here’s hoping to be back reporting the news soon.”

Carcinoid tumours are rare and tend to be slow-growing, sometimes not causing any symptoms for several years, according to Cancer Research UK’s website. About a quarter start in the lung and typically do not spread to other parts of the body.