Star comment: Cancer targets change makes sense

There is sound logic behind such targets, however, which make sure that hospitals are accountable and act in a manner that is transparent. The methodology might not be perfect, but it is better to have some metrics than none.

Indeed, if we look beyond the scepticism, the proposals put forward by NHS England do make sense. It is important to catch cancer in the early stages and doing so improves the prospects of recovery considerably.

If charities such as Cancer Research UK believe the new targets could lead to improvements in diagnosis then we should listen. Others are less sure and have expressed concern about having too many targets - with the suggestion that what is needed is more investment rather than more targets.

Of course, setting new targets does not mean that everything will suddenly improve. But it looks like - implemented correctly - it could be a step in the right direction. The nation is united in wanted to improve both detection and survival rates and having accurate data that improves outcomes is essential.

It is important that the shortcomings in the statistics are acknowledged and also that doctors continue to focus on obtaining an accurate diagnosis for patients and expediting treatment. The targets merely sharpen the focus as medics look to help those in need.

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Rishi Sunak has been a breath of fresh air following the disastrous and chaotic term of Liz Truss and the unlamented leadership of Boris Johnson.

Mr Johnson’s shortcomings were clear and would have led to his expulsion from Parliament, had he not jumped first. Mrs Truss wrought severe damage on the economy with her risky attempt to promote growth in a manner that was entirely unsuitable.

Mr Sunak, in contrast, has avoided the sort of scandals and whiff of sleaze that characterised Mr Johnson’s reign, while avoiding the self-inflicted errors that dominated Mrs Truss’s short-lived era.

In short, he’s proved a steady pair of hands - certainly compared to the chaotic Liz Truss and shambolic Boris Johnson regimes. It’s about policy, rather than personality. However, he faces a huge challenge at the ballot box.