Paxman: Parkinson's Makes You Wish You Weren't Born

Jeremy Paxman has said Parkinson's disease "makes you wish you hadn't been born", as he delivered a list of recommendations about the condition to Downing Street.

- JAMEL SMITH

The former University Challenge and Newsnight presenter and fellow members of the Movers and Shakers podcast - which discusses the challenges of living with the disease – marked World Parkinson’s Day by presenting the Parky Charter and a petition with tens of thousands of names to No 10.

The podcast also features former BBC journalist Rory CellanJones, the broadcaster’s ex-Europe and North America editor Mark Mardell, correspondent Gillian Lacey-Solymar, the late Princess Diana’s divorce barrister Sir Nick Mostyn, and Vicar of Dibley co-writer Paul Mayhew-Archer.

The Parky Charter has five key recommendations: swift access to specialists for individuals with Parkinson’s under the NHS, the introduction of a Parkinson’s UK pamphlet for enhanced awareness and support, the implementation of a Parkinson’s passport granting automatic entitlement to specific benefits, improved comprehensive care, including regular consultations with a Parkinson’s nurse, and increased government funding for research for a cure for the disease.

Rishi Sunak praised the charter, saying he is “very supportive of the excellent work that the Movers and Shakers do and the charter will rightfully receive the attention it deserves”.

However, Mr Paxman said he believes the charter and petition will have “no effect whatsoever” on the government.