Thank you for contacting me about breast cancer.

I am pleased to report that I have supported the Breast Cancer Now on many occasions and earlier this month, asked questions of the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care about cancer screening. You can read the transcript of my question here: https://bit.ly/3ogdkRn.

I am pleased that screening services have re-started in Worcestershire but I urge you to make sure that you see your GP if you have a symptom that is causing you concern.

Breast cancer survival rates have improved remarkably over the last 40 years, with five-year survival rates for women at over 86 per cent, up from just 53 per cent in the 1970s. This is a testament to the efforts made to raise awareness of, and boost funding into tackling this disease but more must be done.

Great efforts are being made to improve cancer services and to ensure that the NHS continues to provide some of the world’s best cancer care. The NHS has launched the National Cancer Programme which is committed to offering uniquely tailored cancer treatment to all patients with breast cancer by the end of 2020.

There will be a one-year review setting budgets for next year, which will allow for a focus on tackling Covid-19 and delivering the Plan for Jobs. I am unable to pre-empt the conclusions of the review. I am, however, assured by my aforementioned colleagues, that they are aware of the policy suggestions you raised.

Thank you for contacting me on this important matter.