Cameron wins dementia funds pledge
FORMER prime minister David Cameron won a pledge from his successor Theresa May yesterday to increase funding for the fight against dementia.
Mr Cameron, the new president of Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: “Tackling dementia was a major focus while I was prime minister and, although improvements in attention and research innovation have been rapid, it remains one of our greatest health challenges.
“Dementia is not inevitable and research is our greatest weapon.”
Downing Street responded by saying: “We are committed to taking forward the plans that have already been set out for increased support for helping people with dementia and tackling this vital issue.”
Mr Cameron, speaking at the charity’s Drug Discovery Institute in Cambridge, added: “I’m committed to helping transform the lives of those affected by this life-shattering condition.” In government, Mr Cameron launched the Prime Minister’s Challenge on Dementia in 2012, highlighting the need for properly funded research, and in 2015 he pledged £300million towards study of the disease, a sum he wants to see doubled by 2025.
His new role at Alzheimer’s Research UK is unpaid.
He is also chairman of National Citizen Service Patrons which promotes voluntary work for young people.