Local MP Brings Leading Researchers to Parliament to Drive Diabetes Research

Tom Gordon, Liberal Democrat MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, brought together some of the UK’s leading diabetes researchers and clinicians in Parliament this week, in a step toward accelerating progress on diabetes research and treatment. 

Chaired by Tom, the cross-party meeting focused on the future of diabetes research in the UK – covering both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It provided a great platform for leading voices in the field to share insights, outline current challenges, and discuss how Parliament can play a more active role in supporting breakthrough research. 

Speakers included Rachel Connor, Director of Research Partnerships at Breakthrough T1D; Dr Elizabeth Robertson, Director of Research at Diabetes UK; and Professor Shanta Persaud, Professor of Diabetes & Endocrinology at King’s College London. Together, they emphasised the urgent need for long-term funding, increased public awareness, and closer collaboration between researchers and policymakers. 

Researchers also extended an invitation to Parliamentarians to visit research labs in person. With a background in science himself, Tom is particularly eager to take up this offer, believing it is crucial for Parliamentarians to witness the research first-hand to fully understand the challenges and opportunities ahead. 

The meeting marked the first official session of the APPG for Diabetes since Tom relaunched the group earlier this year. Recognising the group’s crucial role in keeping diabetes on the political agenda, Tom re-established the APPG shortly after becoming an MP. 

In addition to relaunching and chairing the APPG for diabetes, Tom has also hosted the launch of a major report on access to diabetes technology and worked with Liberal Democrat colleagues to secure a government commitment to extend funding for vital type 1 services for another year. 

Speaking after the meeting, Tom Gordon MP said:

“With millions of people across the UK affected by diabetes, we need to ensure Parliament is actively supporting the researchers and clinicians leading the charge for better treatments.

“Bringing experts into Westminster ensures diabetes stays on the agenda and that MPs understand both the science and the real-world impact on people’s lives.

“I’m proud to be working alongside some of the country’s leading researchers and cross-party colleagues to keep up the pressure and push for real, lasting change for everyone living with diabetes.”

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