The MLA for Vancouver-Hastings, Shane Simpson, is in surgery this morning in a Vancouver hospital after experiencing abdominal pain.

According to an NDP caucus news release, doctors discovered a tumour on his colon.

"Until the surgery is complete and follow up can be done by Shane's doctors, we will not have more information about his condition," the NDP stated. "Shane is in good hands, and we wish him a fast recovery."

Simpson, the NDP caucus chair, was first elected to the legislature in 2005.

He's the party critic for the core review, gaming, liquor modernization, PAVCO, and legislative accountability.

Two years ago, he introduced a private member's bill—the Poverty Reducation Act, 2011—that called for a minister to be appointed to develop a poverty-reduction plan.

Simpson lives in the Burrardview area of Vancouver with his partner Cate and daughter Shayla.