Labour by-election candidate has swine flu

Labour's candidate in this week's Norwich North by-election is being treated for suspected swine flu, the party said today.

A spokesman for the Norwich North Labour campaign said: "We can confirm that Chris Ostrowski is being treated for a suspected case of swine flu.

"This was confirmed by doctors at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital after Chris felt unwell and was taken there earlier today. He collapsed at home and was taken to hospital by ambulance.

"Chris is receiving world class care from an excellent team of doctors, nurses and staff.

"Clearly, our priority is to ensure that nobody falls ill from swine flu unnecessarily and we will follow the medical advice and take every precaution necessary."

Labour is widely expected to lose Thursday's contest, caused by the resignation of sitting MP Ian Gibson after the party's expenses panel excluded him from standing at the next election.

Tory candidate Chloe Smith is the favourite to take the seat, overturning Labour's 5,459 majority from the 2005 poll.

Ms Smith said in a statement: "I'm extremely sorry to hear that Chris has been taken ill this morning.

"One of my campaign team had a suspected case of swine flu two weeks ago so I know just how horrible it can be.

"I'd like to send Chris my best wishes and I hope he will make a speedy recovery."