Kelvin Blackwood

Why did I start the petition on reopening the three state-of-the-art Rutherford Cancer Centres? Honestly, I didn't really know what else to do. Charities, politicians and commentators who are the first to shout for better cancer tech, remain absolutely silent. Why? It is baffling. 20,000 patients a year stand to benefit, yet they can't find their voice. I emailed all MPs, in the areas and with relevant interests for cancer, about the petition. Not a single one replied. You would think having an advanced cancer centre nearby, capable of treating thousands of their constituents, would be worth exploring. Cancer charities are fully aware of the situation, yet say nothing. There has been good coverage in local media and parts of the national media - and we've clearly made a real fuss on social media. The NHS will find millions for diversity and inclusion roles, which offer no value and pay their legions of middle managers very generous salaries. Warped priorities. I received a brief email from NHS England stating that negotiations are ongoing about the centres between Equitix and a third party. I am reliably informed that these are unlikely to be concluded successfully. If the current situation continues, the centres will remain gathering dust well into 2024 and beyond. The hope is to get the petition to ten thousand so we get an official response from Government. It will be dripping in PR spin and say essentially nothing, but at least we will have it on the record. It also demonstrates the strength of feeling - so please take the time to sign and share. It doesn't take long and we're almost at 10k. A genuine and sincere thanks from me, Karol petition.parliament.uk/petit…