ABPI response to Science and Technology Framework publication

The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology has today published the Science and Technology Framework, with the aim of making the UK a science superpower. 

In response to the new Framework, ABPI Chief Executive Richard Torbett said: 

“There’s much to welcome in today’s Science and Technology Framework, which can help support the new Department for Science, Innovation and Technology in delivering the Government’s ambitions for UK Science.

“Continuing to recognise the importance of life sciences will be central to the success of the Framework. The pharmaceutical industry alone invests more than any other in UK R&D and life sciences delivers exports worth around £30bn annually alongside a combined total of £32 billion GVA. Making sure the UK has the right skills, data infrastructure and regulatory frameworks in place will also be critical factors.

“Last week, the ABPI published an ambitious set of proposals for how a new Voluntary Scheme between Government and the pharmaceutical industry can transform the outlook of the UK’s life sciences sector.  Not only do these proposals support the goals set out in today’s Framework, but they also underpin the delivery of the Life Sciences Vision.  It is critical that a new Voluntary Scheme is agreed if we are to achieve our ambitions for science and growth.

“We look forward to working with the new Department on this Framework and the Life Sciences Vision. Implementing both in full and solving the current issues with the Voluntary Scheme will transform the UK’s outlook for science, research and economic growth in the coming years.”