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Friday, October 5, 2007
Lord Sainsbury’s review of the UK science and innovation system has received a warm welcome from
the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI), which also applauded the Government’s
response to the report.
The focus on ensuring that the UK improves its ability to encourage appropriate science and technology
skills is particularly welcome, as is the Government’s recognition of the problem.
“The issue of skills remains key,” said Dr Philip Wright, ABPI Director of Science and Technology.
“Many countries – especially those with growing science and technology bases – are seeking to overtake
us, and are providing the skills and new facilities that will enable this unless we take action.
“The UK needs to up its game in encouraging hard science skills at all levels and also in providing
easier access to new knowledge.”.
ABPI measurements show that pharmaceutical industry and academia collaboration has been on the
decline in the UK, continuing a trend that began in 2003. The trend must be reversed as it has been
a foundation of the success of the development of new medicines in the UK.
“This review recognises the issues, and we warmly welcome that,” said Dr Wright. “No one doubts the
Government’s desire to build a science-based economy for the future – we now need joined-up delivery
by Government departments, academia and the industry, working in close co-operation so that health
sciences in the UK can retain its world-leading position.”
For further information, please contact:
Crispin Slee 020 7747 1410 (office)
Roz Britton-Elliott 020 7747 1441 (office)
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