Labour MP reveals skin cancer diagnosis
Luke Pollard is receiving treatment for skin cancer but said that he hoped to be back at work ‘shortly’.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Labour MP Luke Pollard is receiving treatment for skin cancer but said that he hoped to be back at work “shortly”.
The shadow armed forces minister, who represents the Plymouth, Sutton and Devonport constituency, described the diagnosis as a “bit of a shock” but said he was being “well looked after” by the NHS.
Mr Pollard, 42, who was elected in 2017, released a statement on Thursday to announce that he would be taking a few weeks away from frontline politics to recover.
I went to get a bump checked which was OK but while I was at my GP they found one of concern that turned out to be cancer
“The cancer diagnosis was a bit of a shock but thanks to our brilliant NHS I am being well looked after.
“I will be taking a few weeks to recover but hope to be back at work shortly.
“Skin cancer cases are on the rise in the UK and so if you find a bump or lump, please go and get it checked out.
“I went to get a bump checked which was OK but while I was at my GP they found one of concern that turned out to be cancer.
“The earlier the diagnosis, the more effective the treatment.”
Mr Pollard said that due to Easter recess in Parliament, his attendance in Westminster was not likely to be affected.
But he said he was “gutted” he would not be able to see local team Plymouth Argyle play in Wembley this weekend.
“My brilliant team will continue to help people while I am taking a step back for a short while and so if you live in Plymouth Sutton and Devonport please do continue to contact my office if you need help or support,” he said.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.