BIA reaction to Queen’s speech

Steve Bates OBE, CEO of the BIA said: “It’s great to hear the Government recognises the enormous contribution of the UK life sciences sector to the wider UK economy, which was highlighted at numerous points in today’s Queen’s speech.

 

On clinical trials

 

“The UK has a long history of taking a leading role in regulatory science and novel trial design. It’s welcome news that the Government wants the UK to continue to be at the frontier of the next generation of clinical development of breakthrough products.

 

“Since clinical trials authorisation and oversight processes is a matter for individual countries across the EU and around the world, this can be delivered whatever type of Brexit (including no Brexit) occurs.

 

“It’s vital the MHRA remains a globally capable and relevant regulator, where UK patients can still access the latest innovative treatments and products. We hope all members of Parliament will support this welcome modernisation.

 

Science Bill

 

“We welcome the Government’s commitment to raise R&D investment in the UK to 2.4%. The life sciences sector is consistently the largest investor in R&D and we look forward to continue our engagement with R&D funders to ensure public funding leverages the maximum private investment.  
 

Pensions Bill

 

“We note with interest the proposal to increase the information that savers will have in regard to their pensions and investments, which could lead to more opportunities to investing in our sector.

 

Animal Welfare Bill

 

“We’ll watch carefully the animal welfare bill to ensure it doesn’t have any unintended consequences for our sector.”

 

ENDS 

 

Notes to Editors 

 

1. To find a copy of the Queens speech please folow this link. 

 

2. To read the Queen's speech background briefing, please follow this link. 

 

3. For more information contact Jack Fellows, Communications and Media Manager at the BioIndustry Association on [email protected] or 02076302196