A NORTH-EAST MP has called on the Government to halt controversial plans to close specialist brain cancer units.

Easington MP, Grahame Morris, said: “These proposals are bad news for North-East brain cancer patients, and our region will be hardest hit losing up to seven specialist cancer centres.

Leaked documents from NHS England have outlined proposals to close up to 18 of the 25 cancer facilities that currently provide targeted radiotherapy treatment for brain tumours.

Although only 13 are currently contracted to provide services to NHS patients they are ready to ready to treat patients.

The preferred option ‘Scenario A’ outlined in the document says: 'This option means the procurement of seven devices nationally; two dedicated devices in each of the North, Midlands and East and the South and one device for London.

There are currently 10 devices operational in London, nine in the North of England , three in the Midlands, one in the East and two in the South West.

Two of the currently uncommissioned devices are based at James Cook University Hospital and the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle.

These plans would mean seven centres closing in the North, two in Midlands and the East and nine in London. A second option, called Scenario B, would see 11 of the 25 centres close NHS England has said it would be premature to say that units will close.

Grahame Morris MP has called on the Government to reject these plans, and provide the investment needed to increase access to advanced radiotherapy treatment.

“Closing these life-saving centres will force patients to undergo invasive surgery, or ‘whole brain radiotherapy’, both of which carry significantly greater risks to patients’ health and quality of life,” said Mr Morris.

The MP said he will call on the Health Secretary to fully consult on these proposals before any closures proceed.