The UK government, led by Prime Minister Andy Burnham, and the NHS have confirmed four changes aimed at speeding up the route from research to treatment for people living with brain cancer. The announcement follows a meeting between the Prime Minister, Health Secretary Yvette Cooper, and campaigner Archie Goodburn, who had previously made an emotional plea on BBC Breakfast.
Four Steps Confirmed by the Prime Minister
The four steps confirmed by the Prime Minister are an immediate expert review, led by Professor Anthony Chalmers, Chair of the Brain Tumour Group within the UK Collaborative for Cancer Clinical Research, reporting within three months; a national action plan to follow; a new national brain cancer clinical lead to drive this work forward; and a review of the MHRA's rules for medicines that treat rare conditions, known as orphan drugs, in two years rather than three.
Leading brain cancer experts will assess what has changed for patients since a 2018 government review, and what is still holding progress back, according to the government. The steps build on issues raised by Archie Goodburn, who has campaigned for faster progress on brain cancer.
Prime Minister's Response to Campaigner
Mr Burnham said: “Archie is an inspiration to us all, and I am determined to deliver the change patients and their families deserve. He has spoken passionately about the need for change on brain cancer, and he’s right: progress hasn’t been good enough, here or anywhere else. Families facing this disease can’t afford to wait.
“That is why today we’re committing to appoint a dedicated national lead and setting out how we’ll get new treatments to patients faster. I strongly support this work and was delighted to welcome Archie to Downing Street to discuss it with him in person.”
Cancer Research UK's Response and Investment
Michelle Mitchell, Chief Executive of Cancer Research UK, said: “We’re so grateful to Archie Goodburn for the work he does on behalf of people living with brain tumours, and his meeting with the Prime Minister today is a critical moment for people affected by this type of cancer.
“Today’s announcements are an important step towards accelerating progress. We look forward to working with partners to deliver the 2027 Cancer Research UK Brain Tumour Conference, and support the new national brain tumour leadership group and work involving people affected by cancer to improve clinical trial access.
“Too many people, including young people, are losing their lives to brain tumours, which is why we’ve invested over £116m in brain tumour research over the last decade. Hearing directly from those affected is vital to helping policymakers understand the urgent need for better ways to prevent, diagnose and treat these diseases.”
Health Secretary's Commitment
Health and Social Care Secretary Yvette Cooper said: “Archie has shown extraordinary courage in speaking out and fighting for everyone affected by brain cancer. We owe it to every family facing this devastating disease to do better. We’re acting to get more trials under way, new treatments to patients faster and make the UK a leader in tackling brain cancer.”
