Stretton MP Duncan Pegg retires from politics 18 months after cancer diagnosis

Duncan Pegg, who today retired from politics due to his battle with cancer, has urged colleagues to visit with terminally-ill patients before a historic vote on Voluntary Assisted Dying.

A well-loved parliamentarian forced to quit politics as he battles cancer has urged colleagues to visit with terminally-ill patients as they prepare for an upcoming vote to legalise Voluntary Assisted Dying.

Stretton MP Duncan Pegg, 40, announced he was resigning after being diagnosed with an undisclosed cancer 18 months ago, triggering a by-election in his safe Labor seat.

“Based on my most recent medical advice, I will no longer be able to fight cancer and fight for my electorate in the way my community deserves,” he said.

“I do not want to leave this place and cease representing the community that I love, but I know the decision to resign is the right one.”

Stretton MP Duncan Pegg retires from politics due to a battle with cancer. Picture: Tara Croser

Mr Pegg, who gave an emotional speech that drew laughs and tears, said he was proud of his achievements for his community but was disappointed he would miss the upcoming and historic vote on whether to legalise VAD in Queensland.

“I speak as someone who has been fighting cancer for 18 months, regularly attends a cancer centre, and regularly speaks to cancer patients with a terminal illness,” he said.

“Let’s be very clear, people with terminal illnesses don’t want to die, they want to live.

“They fight to live every day.

“I personally fight to live every day and there are so many positive stories of people successfully fighting cancer.

“However, if you are diagnosed terminal, then ultimately you are going to face death.

“People with terminal illnesses want to have an option.”

Duncan Pegg announces his retirement from politics.

He said he would not tell MPs how to vote on their conscience.

“But before making a decision, I encourage every MP in this place to make sure they speak to, and listen to, people with terminal illnesses and their families,” he said.

“I think if you do that you will get a clear consensus view.”

Mr Pegg also raised the fact important genomic testing, some medications and treatments that could save and prolong lives were not covered by Medicare and the PBS and resulted in great out-of-pocket costs.

Member for Stretton Duncan Pegg with Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk MP.

He also urged politicians to consider superannuation death benefits, which those diagnosed with cancer having to access death benefits early because they can’t qualify for income protection.

That meant leaving nothing behind to support their families.

Mr Pegg received a standing ovation from colleagues and family and friends in the public gallery, with Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk thanking him for “his devotion to his community, his dedication to education and for making Queensland all the better for his service”.