AN MP has stressed the importance of raising the issue of caring for the dying during a Westminster Health Forum seminar.

Stuart Andrew, who represents Pudsey, Horsforth and Aireborough chaired the forum which looked into future priorities for palliative and end of life care.

Representatives from the NHS, Great Ormond Street, Marie Curie and Hospice UK took part in the event During the seminar Mr Andrew spoke of his time working in the hospice movement with local charities such as Martin’s House.

He said: “As someone who previously worked in the hospice movement, I know just how important it is to people that their loved ones receive the best care possible at such a difficult time.

“There is a saying that nothing in life is certain other than death and taxes. In politics we seem to spend a lot of time talking about taxes but very little on end-of-life care.

“This seminar is important in trying to raise the issue so families go through less pain than is necessary.”

He later added: “Palliative and end of life care is an incredibly complex issue that elicits very personal feelings, so it is important to hear the expertise of people across the healthcare sector.

“The speakers delivered a fascinating seminar that provided interesting innovations.”