The government has announced plans to tackle the postcode lottery for cancer specialists.

More deprived parts of the country often have fewer cancer consultants, meaning patients there have longer waits for care. These areas also have higher rates of economic activity  and long waits for diagnosis and treatment keep people out of work.

New training places will be targeted at trusts with the biggest workforce gaps, with rural and coastal areas being prioritised.

More doctors will be encouraged to specialise in clinical and medical oncology.

These news measures will be set out in the National Cancer Plan.

The plan will also include new national standards for cancer care and plans to use technology and AI to spot cancer earlier.

Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting, said: "For too long, your chances of seeing a doctor and catching cancer early have depended on where you live. That’s not fair and has to stop.  

"I am determined to end the health inequalities that have grown across England over the last 15 years. We’re training more doctors in the communities that need them most and making sure the latest cancer detection technology reaches every corner of the country.

"Faster diagnosis doesn’t just save lives - it gets people back to work and back to their families sooner.  

"Whether you live in a coastal town or a rural village, you deserve the same shot at survival and quality of life as everyone else. This government will turn that promise into a reality."

Professor Peter Johnson, National Clinical Director for Cancer at NHS England, said: "We are tackling the differences in cancer care between different parts of the country head-on with the new National Cancer Plan, so that no one needing a diagnosis or treatment is left behind.

"The NHS is increasing cancer specialist training places in areas of most need as well as working closely with the Royal Colleges to bring more doctors into oncology training – ensuring the pipeline of much needed specialists for the future.

"We’re rolling out services, treatments and technology across the country so you will be able to access world-class cancer specialists and the latest treatments that are right for you, no matter where you live."