Labour MPs Call For Urgent Reform Of Mole Removals By Highlighting Zoe’s Law

Richard Quigley MP has secured a Backbench Business debate in the House of

Commons to call for urgent reform in the handling of mole removals, specifically the

mandatory histological testing of all excised moles — whether removed in NHS or private

settings.

The debate is being brought forward in collaboration with Ben Goldsborough

MP, Labour Member for South Norfolk, who is currently undergoing treatment for Stage

2C skin cancer.

The debate was inspired by the family of Zoe Penayi, a 26-year-old Islander, who died in

2020 just 55 days after being diagnosed with melanoma.

Zoe had raised concerns about a mole on her back with her GP on two separate occasions and was told both times that it was "nothing to worry about."

With her concerns dismissed, Zoe paid nearly £200 to have the mole removed privately.

However, as is common practice in many private clinics, the mole was not sent for histological testing—a critical step that could have identified the melanoma earlier.

Ben Goldsborough MP, who credits a biopsy with saving his life, said:

“This campaign is incredibly close to my heart. I know that without a biopsy, I wouldn’t be here today.

"We must ensure that no one else is denied this potentially life-saving step.”

The MPs are calling for a mandatory national protocol requiring all excised moles —

regardless of where they are removed — to be sent for histological testing.

This would:

• Ensure early detection of skin cancers such as melanoma.

• Reduce long-term treatment costs for the NHS through earlier intervention.

Richard Quigley MP stated:

“We have brought this debate forward because we believe no one should have to go through what Zoe and her family went through. Her story must lead to change.”

The MPs hope the debate will:

• Prompt real action from the Department of Health and Social Care.

• Ensure NHS patients are listened to and taken seriously.

• Highlight the importance of early diagnosis, which not only saves lives but also

reduces the burden on the NHS.