Tests show PM has minor retinal tears

Eye sight tests have discovered that Gordon Brown has two minor tears on his retina, but he will not be undergoing further operations, it was disclosed today.

Downing Street moved to clear up the speculation over the Prime Minister's health by insisting that there had been no more deterioration in his vision.

Check-ups over the summer and yesterday showed it had not got worse, a spokesman said.

"This summer Mr Brown had his annual eye check-up which was fine. Later he had his retina checked," said the spokesman.

"After examinations surgeons found that the retina had two minor tears. However, as there has been no further deterioration, and no change in his eye sight, they decided against further operations.

"Yesterday Mr Brown visited Moorfields Hospital as part of regular checks on his eyes and this check was also fine.

"Mr Brown wants to thank the doctors and staff of the NHS particularly Moorfields Hospital. Were there to be any change, he would of course make a further statement."

Number 10 indicated that the details had been released in the interests of "transparency".

Mr Brown was also quizzed about his eyesight during his recent trip to the US.