Jack Layton Up and About After Hip Surgery

The NDP leader says he’s fighting fit for a possible spring election.

Hear that Stephen Harper? Layton’s ready to go. The longtime NDP leader remains in a Toronto hospital following surgery Friday to repair a hairline fracture in his hip, but a statement released by the party said he’s “up walking” and “in great spirits.” The release said Layton has received excellent care at Mount Sinai Hospital, a “reminder of the great health-care system we have in Canada.” In an interview broadcast on the CBC Saturday, Layton said there was no question he would be in good enough health to fight a campaign if the Conservatives’ tabling of the budget on March 22 triggers an election, as is widely expected.