Government Rejects Call to Intervene in Children's Cancer Services Relocation

The Government has declined to intervene in the decision to move the children's cancer services from the Royal Marsden in Sutton to Evelina London Children's Hospital in central London.

Many feared that moving services away from the Royal Marsden, a world-leading cancer treatment centre, could result in a downgrade in the quality of care. Campaigners, including families of young cancer patients, had urged ministers to review the move, warning that it could increase risks for immuno-suppressed children due to the need to travel into central London via public transport and the lack of overnight accommodation.

Additional concerns were also raised about the consultation process, with critics arguing that the decision was predetermined.

The Liberal Democrats outlined these concerns in a letter to the Health Secretary, calling for the Government to intervene. However, they rejected the request and confirmed that the relocation will go ahead.

Liberal Democrat MP Bobby Dean campaigned against the move and expressed disappointment, stating:

"This decision will be a huge disappointment to the families who rely on these vital services. The Health Secretary has committed to work on mitigating parents’ concerns during the transition and we will hold him to that. Families must feel safe and supported during and after this move.”