Deputy Le Tocq recovering after minor heart attack

Thursday 10 December 2020

Guernsey's lead politician on external affairs has had to take temporary leave after suffering a minor heart attack.

Long-serving deputy and former Chief Minister Jonathan Le Tocq was flown to Southampton Hospital on Monday, after being admitted to the PEH over the weekend for chest pains. He is not expected to require surgery but will have to undergo further medical tests.

The deputy has taken the lead on external matters for Policy & Resources since 2016 and Committee President Peter Ferbrache said his experience and skill will be missed in the weeks to come, with many Brexit matters still outstanding.

"Unfortunately Deputy Le Tocq has had to take a temporary leave from his political duties for health reasons," he said. "The thoughts of all of us in government are with him and wishing him a speedy recovery.

"While this is a crucial time as the UK’s negotiations with the EU near a conclusion and Deputy Le Tocq’s experience in this area is invaluable, I will be leading on external relations matters and as is always the case, decisions will be made by the Policy & Resources Committee or the States Assembly as is appropriate.

Pictured: Deputy Ferbrache will be taking over the political lead on external matters in the coming weeks. 

"My political colleagues and I are supported by expert external relations officers and officers from a broad range of areas who bring with them a vast amount of experience and knowledge meaning the team is well-placed and able to make decisions and respond to any and all eventualities."

Deputy Le Tocq, who is due back in the island today, said he was grateful to everyone who had supported him in recent days. 

"Over the weekend I was admitted to the PEH with mild chest pains. Then on Monday, I was sent on to Southampton where further tests and procedures have been carried out. This has confirmed that I have suffered from a minor heart attack which should be treatable without surgery.

"However some further tests will be necessary and I have been advised to rest for a few weeks. I am grateful to all those who have supported me and my family during this time - the wonderful ED, Cardiology team and Carey Ward staff, the professional and reassuring Gamma Aviation air ambulance professionals, as well as CCU staff in Southampton.

"I am also thankful to have such a caring family and especially such a stubborn loving wife who would not let me fob off ‘a bit of chest pain’."