Every year around 1,200 people in Leicester are diagnosed with cancer but the good news is there is now a huge amount we can do to treat cancer and prevent people from getting it in the first place.

I recently met with nurses from Cancer Research UK to talk about the two biggest causes of cancer – smoking and obesity. In particular, we discussed what more we can do to help people have a healthier diet and take more exercise.

Cancer Research UK are also warning that 1 in 10 NHS diagnostic posts are currently unfilled. This is a serious problem because the sooner cancer is diagnosed, the sooner it can be treated and the greater the chance of survival.

That is why I have written to the Prime Minister to demand a long term, fully funded plan for the cancer workforce to address the shortages in our NHS and ensure every patient gets the best diagnosis, treatment and care – no matter where they live.