To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of cancer clinical trials, with regard both to the impact of reduced patient recruitment during the pandemic and the end of the European Union withdrawal period at the end of the year.

I recognise the importance of maximising access to clinical trials for patients across Northern Ireland as these provide the widest possible range of treatment options for cancer and other patients.

Unfortunately, during the first wave of the pandemic, cancer clinical trials in Northern Ireland suspended recruitment of new patients as staff were diverted to other duties in support of COVID-19, however those on existing trials were able to continue. Every possible effort was made to resume normal clinical trial activity, which returned to 60% during the second wave and is currently at 78% compared to normal.

I am pleased to report that the European Union have agreed to delay the introduction of protocols to the supply of medicines to Northern Ireland for a year. My Department continues to work with other UK regions to monitor and mitigate any potential impact of the NI Protocol on the availability of medicinal products, including those required to conduct cancer clinical trials.