Matthew is backing a life-saving appeal from Cancer Research UK for more NHS cancer staff.

He was joined by campaigners in Westminster earlier this week at the launch of the charity’s new campaign ‘Shoulder to Shoulder Against Cancer’.

For 70 years the NHS has been at the forefront of fighting cancer, but with a growing and ageing population cancer services are struggling to cope with the increased number of diagnoses.

In the UK, cancer survival rates are still lagging behind the best in Europe and in England nearly half of all cancers are diagnosed at an advanced stage, when they are harder to treat successfully.

During the event, Matthew met with constituent and Cancer Campaigns Ambassadors, Julie and David, who are committed to the cause .

Matthew said said: “More people are surviving cancer than ever before, thanks to the fantastic work of the NHS staff who turn breakthroughs in research into vital tests and treatments.

“Every year, around 1500 people are diagnosed with cancer in Barnet. With this number set to rise, it’s vital that we have an NHS which is fit to deliver world-class care for all cancer patients now and in the future.

“That’s why I’m backing Cancer Research UK’s call to stand shoulder to shoulder with the NHS against cancer, so that everyone has the best possible chance of surviving this devastating disease.”