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Tracey Crouch: Conservative MP reveals breast cancer diagnosis

The MP for Chatham and Aylesford in Kent says the news "came as a bit of a surprise", but added it "has been caught early".

Alan McGuinness

Digital politics assistant editor

Wednesday 24 June 2020 17:55, UK

Former sports minister says the government's decision to bring forward a reduction in the maximum stake on fixed-odds betting terminals is needed.
Image: Tracey Crouch became an MP in 2010
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Conservative MP Tracey Crouch has revealed she has been diagnosed with breast cancer.

The MP for Chatham and Aylesford in Kent said the news "came as a bit of a surprise".

"But it has been caught early and I'm now being treated and supported by the excellent team at the Maidstone & Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust," she added in a statement on Twitter.

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Ms Crouch, who became an MP in 2010, continued: "It does mean that it looks unlikely I will physically be in parliament before summer recess, but I have organised for a proxy vote in my absence and applied to be able to participate virtually as from next week.

"I shall be doing casework and emails, supported by my brilliant team, which I hope reassures constituents that I shall still be working hard for them while I undergo treatment."

The MP, who is a Football Association-qualified coach, added: "I am incredibly competitive but, on this occasion, won't be playing nicely and intend to go into this challenge with my studs up!"

She also said that people should "regularly check their bits n bobbins and go and see their GP or call NHS 111 upon finding or seeing anything irregular".

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Ms Crouch added: "There is a concern that during the coronavirus pandemic people have not been going to their GP for fear of 'being a burden during this busy time', catching COVID-19 or mistakenly thinking that their local doctors isn't open.

"The key to a better cancer outcome is catching it early so please, if you are worried, talk to your doctor."

Ms Crouch was sports minister under former prime minister Theresa May, but resigned in 2018 amid a row over fixed-odds betting terminals.

SNP MP Hannah Bardwell tweeted: "Awful news Tracey Crouch. But having played alongside you in the parliament footie team I know how competitive you are and that you'll fight this with everything you've got.

"The team will be there to cheer you on all the way. Everything crossed x."