In its final evidence session, the inquiry into cancer services will question Maria Caulfield, Minister of State for Patient Safety and Primary Care, whose responsibilities include cancer. The inquiry has examined why the UK continues to lag behind comparable countries in cancer outcomes. The Committee is expected to ask about the impact of Covid-19 on cancer services and discrepancies in cancer outcomes due to geography and socio-economic class. The Government’s ambition to diagnose 75% of cancers at an early stage by 2028 is likely to be scrutinized.
MPs are also expected to investigate whether the NHS has sufficient up-to-date equipment and specialised staff to diagnose and treat the numbers requiring cancer care. NHS England’s director for cancer care will also give evidence.