Harper encouraged by Layton’s determination

Posted Jul 26, 2011 03:04:28 PM.

This article is more than 5 years old.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper says all Canadians are behind NDP leader Jack Layton as he battles cancer for a second time.

The prime minister says he spoke to Layton yesterday and was encouraged by his outlook.

“We were all very saddened yesterday to hear the news of Mr. Layton’s health. I spoke to Jack yesterday. I’m obviously, as we all are, very encouraged by his courage, his hope and determination to fight this,” he said.

Layton announced yesterday that he’s been diagnosed with another cancer that is different from the prostate cancer he was diagnosed with last year. He has not said what kind it is.

Layton also recommended Hull/Aylmer rookie MP Nycole Turmel be named interim leader. The NDP caucus meets Wednesday at ten to start the process of selecting the interim leader.

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