Oral Answers to Questions

Jim McGovern Excerpts

Tuesday 2nd November 2010 Commons Chamber

[Jim McGovern (Dundee West) (Lab)]

10. What assessment his Department has made of the effect on cancer patients of changes to the maximum waiting period for cancer treatment.

[The Minister of State, Department of Health (Paul Burstow)]

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.

[Jim McGovern]

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?

[Paul Burstow]

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.