RCR welcomes plans to produce cutting-edge cancer treatments from uranium
On 16th December 2025, the UK government announced plans to produce cutting-edge radiopharmaceutical cancer therapies from reprocessed uranium, generated from historic processing of spent nuclear reactor fuel. These therapies can help patients with forms of cancer that are hardest to treat.
Responding to the announcement, Dr Stephen Harden, President of the Royal College of Radiologists (RCR), said:
“We welcome this announcement to produce cutting-edge cancer treatments in the UK so more patients can benefit.
Molecular radiotherapy (MRT) is a highly effective treatment that works by delivering radioactive drugs directly to tumours without damaging healthy tissue. Unfortunately, its rollout has been stalled by disruption in the supply of radiopharmaceuticals, which the UK has relied on importing from abroad.
Starting to produce these domestically will allow more people to have MRT and live longer, healthier lives. It will also help clinical oncologists tackle rising demand for treating more complex cancers.
To improve access to MRT even further, we advise the government to clarify that it should be treated as a radiotherapy rather than a drug. This would speed up rollout by determining how the treatment is funded, quality assured, and delivered safely.”
The RCR has called for the upcoming National Cancer Plan for England to set out greater support for MRT and other cutting-edge cancer treatments.
Read more in our briefing on supporting innovation in cancer treatment.
Notes to editors:
- Media contact: [email protected] 02038054065
- The Royal College of Radiologists (RCR) is the leading professional membership body for clinical radiologists and clinical oncologists