Children suffering from Type 1 diabetes must be given care and support as early in their lives as possible, MP for Poplar and Limehouse Jim Fitzpatrick has urged.

Speaking at charity Diabetes UK’s parliamentary reception to launch its Type 1 Essentials campaign, Mr Fitzpatrick pledged to support the drive to ensure children with the condition receive the 10 “essentials” for treatment.

He said: “If diabetes is not managed well in early life it could lead to devastating complications later in life.

“I will be working with health leaders in Poplar and Limehouse to ensure that children and young people with the condition in the area are getting the recommended diabetes care, services and support they are entitled to.”

The condition means the pancreas does not produce sufficient insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels, and is common in people under 40. It can increase the risk of blindness, stroke and amputations later in life.