​It is part of a package of measures designed to improve schoolchildren’s skills. It is linked to the National Science Learning Centre, on the back of a coalition between individual pharmaceutical companies, the Government and the Wellcome Trust, which are all making financial contributions.

“The aim is to boost the knowledge and confidence of science teachers in schools, thus enhancing the core skills of pupils, and it is heartening that the Government has not only recognised the problem but also earmarked money to help correct the situation,” said Dr Philip Wright, ABPI Director of Science and Technology.

“The UK-based pharmaceutical industry has a long and successful track record of developing new, innovative medicines. If the country is to retain this success – and the £3.9 billion a year spent on research and development in the UK – we must be able to compete on skills, both in terms of core capabilities and specific disciplines.”

The ABPI was also pleased to note the Chancellor’s emphasis on developing new strengths in industries of the future, in which he especially commented on the fact that the pharmaceutical industry accounted for a quarter of the UK’s research and development investment.