Partners in health care join to reverse decline in clinical research in UK

The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) and the BioIndustry Association (BIA), alongside NIHR Office for Clinical Research Infrastructure (NOCRI) last week hosted senior representatives from the life sciences industry, academic researchers and policymakers at a London conference to discuss and debate the UK's strengths and attractiveness for life science research and development.

Over the past few years, all of the agencies and organizations that shape the UK health research environment have been working together to ensure that we build on the country's rich heritage in this field. The health care community, supported by world class scientists, is confident the UK can once again punch above its weight as a leading light in life sciences research.

The conference heard from the Lord Howe, Parliamentary Undersecretary of State for Quality; Professor Dame Sally Davies, Chief Medical Officer and chief scientific adviser, Department of Health; leading academics and professionals from the life sciences industry, with discussion and debate by conference participants. The conference comes one year on from the publication of the government's Strategy for UK Life Sciences, which was warmly welcomed by industry, and aims to improve health outcomes in the UK whilst boosting the UK economy. The ABPI and BIA have supported the initiatives delivered so far, but believe there are a number of key areas that should continue and be strengthened where further progress is required: