Cancer Drug Access

Part of the debate – in the Scottish Parliament at 3:20 pm on 1 October 2008.

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Photo of Nicola Sturgeon Nicola Sturgeon Scottish National Party 3:20, 1 October 2008

I welcome the opportunity to participate in one of the most important debates that the Parliament has had. There is no doubt that the process that led to the debate has highlighted many of the best features of our Scottish Parliament. The ability of a member of the public to raise issues that are not only fundamental to them but of enormous significance to many in Scotland reflects our collective values of engagement and inclusion. In turn, the matters that were brought before the Public Petitions Committee received robust, detailed and thorough examination. I pay tribute to the committee for producing a report that I believe will result in a number of positive developments in the system in Scotland for introducing new drugs—a system that the report recognises as having a number of considerable strengths.

At the outset, I take the opportunity of paying tribute to Michael Gray. His strength of character and determination shone through the deliberations on the issue. Richard Lochhead, who is the constituency member for the area in which the family lives, has told me how highly regarded Michael was in his local community. Margaret Curran has also spoken about the broader contribution that Michael made.

I place on record my thanks and appreciation to Michael's wife, Tina McGeever. My thoughts and condolences remain with Michael's family at what I know must be a very difficult time. The support that Michael got from his family and friends was unwavering. It says an enormous amount that they are determined to continue to seek what he sought for the many in Scotland: a system that does not have the faults that necessitated him and his family going through what they did.

I have no doubt that the debate this afternoon will offer all members the opportunity to consider the committee's recommendations in detail. In the time that is available to me, I am unable to go into the detail of all the issues or to answer all the detailed points that Frank McAveety raised. However, in my oral evidence to the committee, and my written response to the report, I made it clear that, where there is scope for improving and developing the existing arrangements, we will take action. I know that the Parliament will continue to pay close attention to the issues. I welcome that.