WELSH NATIONALISTS published their cancer plan for Wales today on World Health Day to ensure better support for people diagnosed with cancer.

Plaid Cymru health spokesman Mabon ap Gwynfor said: “Wales is the only nation of the UK with no cancer plan, and it’s the people of Wales paying the price.”

He said the fact Wales doesn’t have a cancer plan is symbolic of Welsh Labour’s lack of vision and ambition for the NHS.

“We cannot celebrate World Health Day without acknowledging the struggles of people battling one of the most devastating diseases and biggest killers.

“Cancer standards in our NHS simply aren’t good enough. Too many people are not receiving the care, treatment, and support they deserve in an effective or timely manner, with targets constantly being missed.”

The latest data on cancer treatment on the NHS showed that only 57 per cent of people received their first definitive treatment within 62 days of first being suspected of having cancer, despite the target being 75 per cent.

“No longer will missed targets and falling standards be treated as the normal state of affairs here in the Welsh NHS.

“Plaid Cymru knows this isn’t as good as it gets for Wales, which is why we have a bold, ambitious strategy to ensure that the one in two people who will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetimes receive better, more timely service.

“By prioritising prevention, catching cancers earlier, ensure equity in service provision and strengthening rules around patient consent — Plaid Cymru will elevate standards and improve outcomes when it comes to cancer treatment.”

Welsh Labour was asked to comment.