Manning wants sick leave extended for 90 more days to January 23, 2013

File: Supporters greet Patrick Manning on his return home from the US where he received medical treatment

Former Prime Minister Patrick Manning has asked Parliament to extend his leave from the House of Representatives by another 90 days, ending on January 23, 2013.

The MP for San Fernando East suffered a stroke in January this year and has been on extended leave since then. He was initially treated at the San Fernando General Hospital and later transferred Washington DC, for additional treatment there. The government has paid for his medical expenses.

According to the constitution the Parliament would have to vote on whether to grant Manning an extension. If MPs vote against it Manning's seat could be declared vacant. In such a case a by election would have to be held within 90 days of the seat being declared vacant.