Mallon is comfortable in hospital

THE SDLP deputy leader, Mr Seamus MP, is in "stable comfortable condition" in St Thomas's hospital, London, where a spokeswoman…

THE SDLP deputy leader, Mr Seamus MP, is in "stable comfortable condition" in St Thomas's hospital, London, where a spokeswoman said yesterday he was likely to remain for a second night of observation.

Mr Mallon was admitted on Thursday evening after he suffered a prolongedcoughing fit while taking part in a Radio Ulster programme from London home. The Ulster Unionist MP, Mr John Taylor, who also participated in the programme said later Mr Mallon had told his colleagues he believed he had fainted.

After spending one night in hospital, it was thought Mr Mallon would return to

London home but by late yesterday afternoon it was clear that he would remain at St Thomas's.

Mr Mallon's wife, Gertrude, said she was waiting further news from St Thomas's before travelling to London from their home in Armagh town.

  • Join The Irish Times on WhatsApp and stay up to date

  • Sign up for push alerts to get the best breaking news, analysis and comment delivered directly to your phone

  • Listen to In The News podcast daily for a deep dive on the stories that matter