MP ‘disappointed’ as Government refuse to protect cancer survivors from financial discrimination

-Credit: (Image: Peter Morrison/PA Wire)
-Credit: (Image: Peter Morrison/PA Wire)


The Ulster Unionist Party MP Robin Swann has expressed his disappointment that the UK Government has refused to introduce new rules which would protect cancer survivors from financial discrimination.

The South Antrim MP and former Health Minister was speaking after a UK Treasury minister reaffirmed the Government's commitment to improving financial inclusion for all and their desire to continue working with regulators to do so.

Economic Secretary to the Treasury, Tulip Siddiq was responding to a question from Mr Swann in which he asked if the Chancellor planned to bring forward proposals to counter financial discrimination against cancer survivors.

Read more: NI political parties unite to sign letter opposing winter fuel payment cuts

Read more: We asked Belfast students about Stormont plans for young people to stay in education or training until 18

"The Government recognises the importance of access to useful and appropriate financial products. We work closely with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), the independent regulator of the UK's financial services sector, to ensure that customers are treated fairly by firms," Tulip Siddiq said.

"While the pricing and availability of financial services and products is a commercial decision for firms, FCA rules require the price a consumer pays for a product or service be reasonable compared to the overall benefits they can expect to receive. The FCA also expects that customers get the right support with their financial products, particularly where their personal circumstances, including health conditions, may make them more susceptible to harm.

"The Government is committed to improving financial inclusion and will continue to work with regulators, firms, and the third sector to this end."

Following this response, Robin Swann MP said: “Unfortunately, even after receiving the ‘all-clear,’ cancer survivors still face financial discrimination. Many survivors, including those cancer-free for decades, still face higher insurance rates and mortgage rejection. A recent QUB study highlighted that cancer survivors can often be expected to pay as much as 20% more than the general population.

“I welcome the Government’s commitment to improving financial inclusion for everybody, but I am disappointed that specific rules that would protect cancer survivors will not be committed to by this government.

“I am urging the UK Government to introduce new rules which will financially protect and support our cancer survivors.”

For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our politics newsletter here.