Prime Minister Andy Burnham has offered to meet with Scottish Commonwealth Games swimmer Archie Goodburn, following the 25-year-old's emotional plea on BBC Breakfast for increased government funding for brain cancer research.
During Tuesday's show (August 4), Archie addressed the Prime Minister directly through the camera, visibly shaking and in tears, urging him to make a 'change and difference' to the nation's future and young population by listening to advocates.
Response within 24 hours
Within 24 hours of the emotional moment being shared online, Andy Burnham replied to the video on social media, thanking Archie for his advocacy and expressing a desire to meet with him directly. Burnham confirmed his team would be in touch to arrange further progress.
Returning to the show, Archie described the past 24 hours as a 'whirlwind', telling Jon Kay and Sarah Campbell that it was a 'breath of fresh air' for the government to reach out. He noted that the meeting would not happen immediately, as the Prime Minister is currently on holiday.
Frustration over funding
Jon Kay referenced former Labour politician Tessa Jowell, who campaigned passionately for brain cancer research funding, and asked Archie how he plans to maintain momentum. Archie replied: "I mean, you're spot on, it's why I'm back here today to keep the momentum going. Let's get that date in the diary with Andy Burnham when he's back from his holiday."
Archie expressed disappointment that funds pledged following Jowell's campaign have not been fully invested: "It's really disappointing that the money from Dame Tessa Jowell hasn't been invested, given how public her profile was and how heavily she campaigned. Of that £40 million, only around £13 to £15 million has been seen in the last eight years."
He highlighted that this is a major source of frustration for the community, and was a key topic at the Brain Cancer Justice parliamentary debate in March. Archie stressed the need for advocates to ensure outcomes are delivered, rather than promises remaining on paper.
