Government delays over future of radiotherapy services is costing lives - MP

Local MP Tim Farron has slammed the Government for "dragging its feet" over plans for the future of radiotherapy.

A consultation into improvements to radiotherapy services across the UK by NHS England closed back in January.

But nearly a year on the Government are still yet to respond.

Tim encouraged local residents to take part in the consultation to make the case for improved access to radiotherapy centres and for a satellite unit to be brought to Westmorland General Hospital in Kendal.

Tim said: "The Government's consultation on improving life-saving radiotherapy services gave a lot of hope to cancer patients and their families across the country, and especially here in South Cumbria where the nearest centre is over one hour away for most people.

"We spend a smaller proportion of our cancer budget on radiotherapy than any most other developed countries in the world, and a result we have one of the worst survival rates in Europe.

"The Government's decision to drag its feet over these plans is costing lives and we demand action before 2018 is out."