Rochdale MP Sir Tony Lloyd to spend time with family as blood cancer develops into “aggressive and untreatable form of leukaemia”

Tony Lloyd MP

Rochdale MP Sir Tony Lloyd has announced he has left hospital to spend time with his loved ones after his cancer has developed into “into an aggressive and untreatable form of leukaemia.”

The former police and crime commissioner, who was first elected as Labour MP for Rochdale in 2017, has asked for privacy as he spends “the time I have left with my family.”

In a statement, Mr Lloyd said he had been receiving treatment for “some time” after his cancer was controlled by chemotherapy.

Mr Lloyd, who is 73-years-old, had previously been diagnosed with a rare type of blood cancer – a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma known as Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinaemia – and was in remission as of January 2021.

He said: “I have been receiving treatment for some time for a form of blood cancer which has been controlled by chemotherapy.

“Unfortunately this has now transformed into an aggressive and untreatable form of leukaemia and I will be leaving hospital today (11 January) to spend the time I have left with my family.

“I ask for privacy for both myself and my family at this time.”

The leader of Rochdale Borough Council, Neil Emmott, said he was "deeply saddened" by the news.

He said: "Tony’s life has been one of truly outstanding public service; trusted, respected and admired across the political divide, He has always led the way in fighting injustice, campaigning for equality, and as a powerful advocate for peace and tolerance, at home and abroad. Creating a fairer, more just, equitable society is what moves him. 

"Tony is an exceptional Member of Parliament for Rochdale, held in high esteem across the community for his decency, principled stances and thoughtful approach. Tony is someone I, and countless others, have always admired and valued as a longstanding friend, colleague and campaigner.

"On behalf of my councillor colleagues, the whole council and the community, I want to send my love and best wishes to Tony and his family at this difficult time."

Mr Lloyd has confirmed that his office will remain open to continue to support constituents, and people can get in touch via email or post:

• Email: tony.lloyd.mp@parliament.uk
• Post: Office of Tony Lloyd MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA