CASTRIES, St Lucia: St Lucia's prime minister, Sir John Compton was admitted to the Tapion Hospital last week. Lady Janice Compton said the prime minister had difficulty breathing and he had to be rushed to the hospital. He advised her to make a public statement on his health status.

In a radio broadcast on Saturday, acting prime minister, Stephenson King, announced that doctors treating Sir John had advised that he be flown to the neighbouring island of Martinique for further medical treatment, since his condition had not improved.

Upon consultation with his family, they agreed that he be flown to La Menard Hospital in Martinique for additional treatment.

Family members, King and Economic Affairs and Planning Minister Ausbert D'Auvergne witnessed the departure of Sir John via air ambulance. The prime minister was accompanied by his wife and his personal physician.

King said that upon Sir John's arrival, he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) where the doctors were currently conducting a comprehensive assessment of his condition.

King also said Sir John's medical situation is complicated by his age and the fact that he is receiving treatment for a long standing heart condition and diabetes. The prime minister is being given the best medical care with the objective of ensuring a full recovery.

In late April, after suffering a series of minor strokes, Sir John was hospitalized in the United States for a period of six weeks.