Doris-Ann and Ben attended the AGM of the APPG for Life Sciences in Parliament this week. Seven MPs were present at the event which examined access to innovation in the NHS. Chair Daniel Zeichner MP was joined by Parliamentary colleagues, including Maggie Throup MP, Chris Green MP, Steve McCabe MP and Father of the House, Sir Peter Bottomley MP.
There was criticism of the Government’s commitment to the life sciences industry, with claims that their words did not match their actions. This came amidst warnings that business was turning its back on the UK and would continue unless the Government made the UK a more attractive place to conduct business.
Maggie Throup stressed the need to make access to clinical trials easier – an assertion she has raised in the chamber of the House of Commons. She also stated that the MHRA could do a lot more if given the tools. Attendees agreed, pointing out that the MHRA was underfunded.
There were also calls for the Government to provide funding over a longer period to provide business with greater security and assurance. It was universally acknowledged that the UK possesses a world class life sciences industry which is not invulnerable, therefore work must be done to ensure it is not lost.
