Reform UK's Scottish leader, Malcolm Offord, has stated he is "healthy" and "mended" after undergoing treatment for prostate cancer. The diagnosis came on polling day at the start of the Holyrood election campaign, following an "intense" period of tests.
Doctors described Offord's cancer as aggressive, rating it an eight out of ten on the Gleason score, but confirmed it had not spread. Lord Offord, who recently turned 62, had his prostate removed last month through private treatment. He arranged this to ensure he would be able to lead his 17-strong MSP group in the autumn.
The public became aware of his condition after he was seen wearing a hospital wristband during a talk at the Edinburgh Fringe and mentioned the operation. Speaking at the Reform UK conference in Birmingham, Offord described his mindset during the ordeal: "Maybe I’m just a glass half-full sort of person. All the time this is happening I’ve felt healthy. I’ve got an issue that needs to be dealt with, so get it dealt with and move on."
He noted that his work served as "a great distraction" while awaiting surgery. Offord also mentioned that friends who had experienced similar health challenges provided reassurance. "I know quite a few people who have had treatment, come out the other side, and lived very long and healthy lives. So I didn’t get into a doom loop," he stated.
Offord, who previously worked in finance and began his career at a bakery, has adopted a new health regime. "No Scotch pies, no processed food, change of diet, more exercise, less alcohol, all the usual stuff," he said, referring to his past fondness for Scotch pies. He added that he engages in hill walking and plays golf occasionally, but does not frequent gyms.
He previously served as a Scotland Office minister in the last Conservative government and expressed his commitment to politics for the long term. Offord stated his focus is on "governing" and "fixing this country" by addressing issues such as schools and hospitals, distinguishing this from the more "glamorous bit" of politics. He also acknowledged a need to improve his skills as a politician.