Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what molecular testing takes place in the UK in mesothelioma and other rare cancers; and how that compares to more common cancers such as breast, lung or colorectal cancer.

The UK Genetic Testing Network evaluates new genetic tests and aims to promote equity of access to genetic testing in the National Health Service. Genetic testing is not performed routinely in cases of mesothelioma and there is currently no approved genetic test for patients with mesothelioma.

In September 2015, the Department confirmed a commitment from NHS England to implement the independent Cancer Taskforce’s recommendations on molecular diagnostics. This will mean that around 25,000 additional people a year will have their cancers genetically tested to identify the most effective treatments.