Mandelson admitted to hospital

British business secretary Peter Mandelson was admitted to hospital in London today for an an operation to treat a "benign condition…

British business secretary Peter Mandelson was admitted to hospital in London today for an an operation to treat a "benign condition of the prostate", his spokesman said.

"He's in hospital. We expect him out tomorrow. It's been scheduled for some time," the spokesman said.

Mr Mandelson (55) returned to the British government last year after serving as European Union trade commissioner.

He is seen as one of the most influential figures in the government and deputised for prime minister Gordon Brown earlier this month when Brown was on holiday.

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Mr Mandelson is expected to play a central role in Labour's strategy for a general election due by next June.

Reuters