Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what consideration has been given to changing NHS policy so that the possibility of a second transplant is assessed individually for relapses within 12 months of an allogeneic stem cell transplant.

NHS England does not routinely collect or hold data on the number of patients with blood cancer who do not meet the eligibility criteria set out in its clinical commissioning policies, the numbers who have not been funded to receive treatment under the current commissioning policy, or the number of patients whose disease relapsed under 12 months of a first allogeneic-hematopoietic stem cell transplant.

NHS England recognises the seriousness of relapse following a stem cell transplant and is actively reviewing the current policy, working with clinicians, patients, and charities to assess the latest available evidence. A revised draft policy is expected to undergo stakeholder testing in the new year, with final decisions currently anticipated in late spring 2027.

The ongoing review will consider the latest peer-reviewed clinical evidence, alongside clinical benefit, patient safety, affordability, and the opportunity cost of any new investment. Any changes to commissioning arrangements will be considered through NHS England's established policy development process, which includes an independent evidence review, expert clinical input, patient and public involvement, and stakeholder testing. Stakeholders will have the opportunity to comment on the draft policy through a formal stakeholder testing process before any final decisions are made.