Cancer Reform Stategy - 6th Dec, 2007

Sian James has welcomed the Government Cancer Reform Stategy and the inclusion of a review on sunbed use.

Health Secretary Alan Johnson outlined plans to review the regulation and use of sunbeds in a drive to cut the number of cases of skin cancer, which has been rising over recent years.

Cancer survival rates across Britain are still lagging behind the European average, despite recent improvements and the publication of the first Cancer Plan in 2000.

Mrs James said it was an important step forward, but called for sunbeds use to be banned completely for those aged under 18.

Sian James MP said: "Since my election in 2005, I have campaigned long and hard to raise awareness about the dangers of children and young people using sunbed salons, particularly those that are unstaffed.

"I am pleased the Government has now formally recognised that these concerns are genuine and serious.

"With skin cancer the fastest-growing cancer in the UK, I believe an unregulated sunbed industry will only exacerbate this problem.

"Banning the use of sunbeds by under-18s is essential.

"We must do whatever we can to prevent children and young people exposing themselves to a risk of developing skin cancer in later life."