David Cameron's son dies

The disabled son of Conservative leader David Cameron has died, the party has announced.

Ivan Cameron, who had cerebral palsy and epilepsy, was taken ill overnight and died at St Mary's Hospital, Paddington, early on Wednesday morning. He was six years old.

A Conservative Party spokesman said: "It is with great sadness that David and Samantha Cameron must confirm the death of their six-year-old son Ivan.

“David and Samantha would ask that their privacy is respected at this terribly difficult time."

Ivan was the couple’s eldest son. They also have two other children, Nancy, five, and Arthur, three.

The prime minister, Gordon Brown, and his wife, said in a statement: “Sarah and I were very saddened to hear of the death of Ivan and we have sent our condolences to David and Samantha. The death of a child is a loss no parent should have to bear.

“I know Ivan was a child who brought joy to all those who knew him and his was a life surrounded by love. The thoughts and prayers of the whole country are with David, Samantha and their family.”

Jon Sparkes, Chief Executive of national disability charity Scope said: “We are very sorry for the tragic loss of Ivan Cameron and our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.

“We do not feel it is appropriate to comment further about Ivan out of respect for the family’s privacy.”