Wishart challenges First Minister on cancer screenings and calls for ministerial statement

Following the news that 13,000 women will be invited for a smear test after errors in Scotland’s cervical screening programme, Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP Beatrice Wishart has today challenged Humza Yousaf on how he will support the women affected and called on the Health Secretary to deliver a ministerial statement addressing the issue.

Speaking in parliament during First Minister’s Questions, Ms Wishart asked Mr Yousaf what “urgent action” he will take to ensure that anyone who is “eligible for the cancer testing and screening programme is receiving their invitation on time.”  

Speaking after First Minister’s Questions, Ms Wishart said:

“The number of those at risk may be statistically low, but every number represents a person who will be concerned when they receive an appointment invitation.  

“The government decided to hide errors in the screening programme for months before the 2021 election. They put political victories front and centre, leaving hundreds of women in a state of anxiety and confusion.

“This time around, the government needs to do everything in its power to offer reassurance and ensure women are contacted as swiftly as possible. In the longer-term, the government must improve access to screenings, including through the introduction of self-sampling, so that further uptake is not impacted.  

“This is a complicated issue, which is why I would like to see the new Health secretary Michael Matheson deliver a statement to parliament to provide answers and clarity for all those affected.”