CONSERVATIVE Party leader David Cameron's disabled son Ivan has died, it has just emerged.

TORY leader David Cameron's disabled son Ivan has died, it was announced today.

A Conservative Party spokesman said: “It is with great sadness that David and Samantha Cameron must confirm the death of their six-year-old son Ivan.

“Ivan, who suffered from cerebral palsy and severe epilepsy, was taken ill overnight and died at St Mary's Hospital, Paddington, early this morning.

“David and Samantha would ask that their privacy is respected at this terribly difficult time."

The news sent shockwaves around the political world - although people knew that the Cameron's son had a disability, news of his death came as a shock.

Ipswich Council's Tory leader Liz Harsant has met Mr Cameron on several occasions, and spoke of her sadness at today's news.

She said: “This is a terrible blow for his family. They have always been such wonderful parents.

“Everyone was aware that their son had disabilities - but no one expects this kind of thing to happen. You always hope that everything will come out all right in the end.”

Suffolk county council leader Jeremy Pembroke said: “This is tragic news. I feel very sorry for the family - they have provided a wonderful loving home and I know they will be devastated. I am desperately sorry to hear this news.

Geoffrey Van Orden, Tory Euro MP for the East of England, said the Camerons could not have done more in their caring and devotion for Ivan.

“The loss of a child is a tragedy for any family. David and Samantha have my deepest sympathy.”

And Ipswich Labour MP Chris Mole said politicians across the spectrum would feel for the Cameron family.

“No parent ever wants to be in a position to have to bury their child - my heart goes out to the family. I know that will be the feeling from people across the political spectrum,” he said.

“I am sure the Prime Minister will want to express his own sympathy as well - having been in a similar position when he and his wife lost their first child when she was a baby.”

Mr Cameron had been an MP for less than a year when Ivan was born in April 2002.

He and wife Samantha have two younger children, Nancy and Arthur.