Lord Ashcroft is missing his own book launch tonight because he is recovering in hospital after suffering from septic shock, liver and kidney failure on September 24. Iain Dale gave his speech in his place, revealing Ashcroft has spent 18 days in intensive care. Lord A is said to be recovering and is still active on Twitter. Guests at the Call Me Dave launch were stunned into silence by the news…

UPDATE: Full details of Ashcroft’s “life-threatening” illness via Channel 5 Belize:

He suffered internal bleeding and was treated in Ohio. His family feared for his life. He is now “out of danger and recuperating well”.