Edinburgh South West MP Dr Scott Arthur has been recognised with a prestigious national award for his tireless advocacy on behalf of patients with a rare form of cancer.
Dr Arthur received the Political Voice of the Year award from Sarcoma UK at the charity’s annual Shining Stars awards ceremony held at Tower Bridge in London last evening (Wednesday 5 November). The award recognises his work championing research and improved care for sarcoma patients since his election in July 2024.
After being elected to his seat in July 2024, Dr Arthur brought forward the Rare Cancers Bill, addressing the vital need for more research into rare cancers like sarcoma. As the Bill progressed through the Commons, he spoke about the needs of sarcoma patients during debates.
Throughout this time, he has engaged consistently with the rare cancers community, including meeting with Sarcoma UK. In June 2025, Dr Arthur hosted the Westminster launch of Sarcoma UK’s Unique Among Cancers report, a comprehensive review of sarcoma care across the country.
Receiving the award, Dr Arthur talked about the progress of his Rare Cancers Bill which he said is now before the House of Lords. He told the audience that a year ago he didn’t know what sarcoma was until he met Sarcoma UK’s Chief Executive Richard Davidson. He also related how he had been moved by a visit from a woman in his constituency who had lost her daughter to the disease but who was happy that he had presented the Bill to parliament and that it was supported by Sarcoma UK.
Speaking of the award, Dr Arthur said: ‘I’m truly grateful to Sarcoma UK for this award. It’s a privilege to work alongside campaigners, clinicians and families who refuse to let sarcoma go unseen. Their dedication keeps pressure on policymakers to deliver earlier diagnoses, better treatment and lasting change for patients.’
Sarcoma UK’s Policy and Public Affairs Manager, Andy French, said: ‘Dr Scott Arthur has been an exceptional champion for the sarcoma community. His Rare Cancers Bill put the urgent need for better research and treatment on the political agenda. The fact that we were able to present the Unique Among Cancers Report to Health Secretary Wes Streeting at a reception he hosted at Westminster demonstrates the real impact of his advocacy. He has helped to open doors that have historically been closed to rare cancer patients, and his work is already making a tangible difference in raising the profile of sarcoma and driving the changes these patients desperately need.’
