Barbados Prime Minister David Thompson announced a few days ago that he was taking a two-month leave of absence so he can pursue treatment for a medical illness. He was planning to leave the country immediately so he could get medical tests and treatment abroad.

At a Press briefing, he said it was too early to confirm the nature of the illness but there are rumours abound that it is cancer. However, Bajan rumours are known for getting out of hand so we'll have to wait till he makes an official announcement.

Thompson has not ruled out surgery, "Shortly, an evaluation will take place to determine if I need surgery. It may be a complex and serious procedure."

He thanked Barbadians for their support and asked that they pray for him and his family.

During the PM's leave, Attorney General Freundel Stuart will be acting as prime minister.

Prime Minister David Thompson has lost a lot of weight due to his illness.