ABPI response to COVID-19 border closures

Several countries have closed their borders to the UK, including France.

Preparations for Brexit - and our work carried out throughout this pandemic - means that pharmaceutical companies have contingencies in place for border emergencies in line with the Government’s worst-case scenario planning. Richard Torbett

In response Richard Torbett, Chief Executive of the ABPI said:

“Preparations for Brexit - and our work carried out throughout this pandemic - means that pharmaceutical companies have contingencies in place for border emergencies in line with the Government’s worst-case scenario planning. This includes additional buffer stocks of medicines already in the UK and the ability to re-route supplies away from the short strait channel crossings. 

"We understand that companies are confident at this current time that medicines and vaccines - including the COVID-19 vaccine - will continue to reach patients. 

"We are closely monitoring the situation and working with the UK Government as they deal with issues regarding the UK’s borders.”

TAGS
  • COVID 19

Last modified: 20 September 2023

Last reviewed: 20 September 2023

The ABPI exists to make the UK the best place in the world to research, develop and use new medicines. We represent companies of all sizes who invest in discovering the medicines of the future. 

Our members supply cutting edge treatments that improve and save the lives of millions of people. We work in partnership with Government and the NHS so patients can get new treatments faster and the NHS can plan how much it spends on medicines. Every day, we partner with organisations in the life sciences community and beyond to transform lives across the UK.