General election: ABPI urges new government to be ‘decisive’

A statement from the trade body pointed out that the pharmaceutical industry was “key” to the strength of the UK economy and the health of UK patients.

According to the ABPI, the pharmaceutical sector has, over the past decade, consistently generated a trade surplus of £1.1 billion per year for the UK. It claims this is larger than any other industrial sector in the country. 

The statement said: "The new Government must be decisive in making sure the UK keeps its position as a location of choice for the global pharmaceutical industry." 

The ABPI also said it would be calling on all political parties to pledge to create an NHS that delivers improved access to the new medicines UK companies research, develop and manufacture.

Greater certainty

Meanwhile, manufacturers' organisation chief executive Terry Scuoler, who recently announced he would soon be retiring from his role at EEF, welcomed the move, saying May’s decision would help create greater certainty over government policy for withdrawal from Europe.

Scuoler said: “Industry will welcome the Prime Minister’s decision to seek a clear mandate. The last year has been one of considerable uncertainty which, if it had gone on unchecked, would have risked hampering future investment.”

For a video of the prime minister's announcement click here.