The Premier said yesterday that the public would be informed if there was an update on a Cabinet minister who has been absent from his post for weeks.

David Burt said the responsibilities of Lieutenant-Colonel David Burch, the public works minister, were being carried out by Wayne Furbert, the Cabinet Office minister, on a temporary basis.

He said: “The Acting Minister of Public Works, Wayne Furbert, is covering for the minister and if there is any further updates we will be happy to give them.”

Mr Burt was asked about Colonel Burch, who is understood to be have been ill, at a press briefing yesterday.

Walter Roban, the Deputy Premier and home affairs minister, told The Royal Gazette last week: "I can't really speak on … that's a personal matter for him and his family. ​

"So, I can't speak on his health, or any matters related to Colonel Burch.

"I think, out of respect, I would refrain from any comment."

The Ministry of Public Works is responsible for the maintenance of the island’s roads and infrastructure, as well as for essential services such as trash collection.