Oral Answers to Questions Debate
Full Debate: Read Full DebateJim McGovern
Main Page: Jim McGovern (Labour - Dundee West)Department Debates - View all Jim McGovern's debates with the Department of Health and Social Care
(13 years, 9 months ago)
Commons Chamber10. What assessment his Department has made of the effect on cancer patients of changes to the maximum waiting period for cancer treatment.
I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for his question, because it allows me to make it absolutely clear that the Government have not changed the waiting times standards for cancer services. The revision to the NHS operating framework for this year confirmed that the NHS is expected to continue to ensure that people with suspected cancers are seen within the agreed waiting times standards.
I thank the Minister for his response. I am sure that he agrees with me that the policy brought in by the previous Government to ensure guaranteed minimum waiting times for cancer patients made great strides forward, not only for patients but for their families. May I urge him to ensure that this is not changed by any Government policy changes and that guaranteed minimum waiting times remain at the forefront of treatment for cancer patients?
I am grateful for the question. The answer, of course, is yes, we are determined to maintain these targets because we believe they make a difference.