Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP has received Government responses to three recent written parliamentary questions concerning breast cancer screening, cancer treatment capacity, and research funding for lobular breast cancer.
His question on the age limits for routine breast cancer screening asked what assessment had been made of the current eligibility range and whether a review was planned to support earlier detection. The Government stated that decisions on screening are led by the UK National Screening Committee, which reviews evidence to determine when screening does more good than harm. It explained that the NHS Breast Screening Programme currently invites women aged 50 to 71 for screening every three years and highlighted the ongoing AgeX trial, the largest of its kind, which is examining the impact of offering additional screening to those aged 47–49 and 71–73. Once the final results are published, the committee will consider whether changes to the current age criteria are appropriate. Women aged 71 and over can continue to self‑refer for screening if they wish.
In a further question, Julian sought information on Government action to ensure that cancer treatment services, including mobile chemotherapy units and hospital breast cancer clinics, have the resources necessary to meet patient demand and reduce waiting times. In recent updates, including a statement on 19 January 2026, the Government reported progress in expanding access to cancer treatments such as abiraterone for prostate cancer patients, signalling broader investment in improving treatment pathways and reducing delays across the system.
Julian also asked for an update on research funding for lobular breast cancer, following earlier correspondence with the Department of Health and Social Care. In its response, the Government recognised the critical need for more research into this form of breast cancer and confirmed that responsibility for funding sits jointly with the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and UK Research and Innovation, including the Medical Research Council. The Department noted that the NIHR issued a highlight notice in November 2025, encouraging research applications that focus on improving detection, diagnosis, treatment, and long‑term monitoring for patients with lobular breast cancer. It emphasised that NIHR continues to welcome high‑quality funding applications in all areas of health and care, including this under‑researched cancer type.
Commenting, Julian said: “Ensuring timely screening, improving treatment access, and backing vital research are essential parts of strengthening cancer services for patients in North Yorkshire and across the country. I will continue to raise these important issues in Parliament on behalf of my constituents.”
You can read Sir Julian's written question here.
