US Defence Secretary Austin leaves hospital

Washington [US], January 16: US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin has been released from hospital and will perform his duties remotely as he continues to recover from treatment for prostate cancer, the Pentagon has said.
His delay in telling colleagues and the White House about his illness sparked criticism and three investigations.
The 70-year-old was admitted to an intensive care unit on 1 January due to complications from surgery in December.
He is expected to make a full recovery, his doctors said in a statement.
"Secretary Austin progressed well throughout his stay and his strength is rebounding," said Dr John Maddox and Dr Gregory Chesnut from the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.
His prostate cancer was treated early and effectively, and "his prognosis is excellent", they said, adding that he has no further treatment planned.
The defence secretary is just below the president in the chain of command for the US military, and is regarded as one of the most important members of the Cabinet.
Biden says Defence Secretary suffered judgement lapse Austin had a "minimally invasive" surgery to treat prostate cancer in late December. He was readmitted to hospital on New Year's Day due to complications related to the procedure. Senior defence officials and the White House did not learn that Austin was seriously ill until three days after his re-admission.
That secrecy prompted security and transparency concerns and three investigations have since been launched into the handling of his health crisis. (Agencies)
Source: Qatar Tribune