SOUTH Lakes MP Tim Farron urged government ministers to use next week’s Comprehensive Spending Review to invest in cancer services.

Since the Covid-19 crisis, cancer services have witnessed a huge backlog and the British Medical Journal estimate that the pandemic will result in 60,000 deaths due to cancer as a result.

Speaking in Parliament, Mr Farron said: “Will the minister confirm whether her Department is making an urgent bid for spending review funding for smart radiotherapy, for delivery at satellite sites and for digital technology, to ensure that we clear the backlog, save lives and catch up with cancer?"

In response, Health Minister Jo Churchill said: “As he will know, the comprehensive spending review will deliver forth, and bids have been put in across the piece.

“I recognise that, as the hon. Gentleman says, there is a way to go, but I am aware of how much each day spent waiting for a diagnosis, for treatment or for an answer suspends time and feels like a year for the individual.

“We will continue to ensure that cancer services are prioritised and we thank those who work in the cancer workforce for everything they are doing.”