The Institute of Clinical Research (ICR) has welcomed the announcement by UK finance minister Gordon Brown of measures to further enhance the UK's position in global medical research
The package of reforms and increased investment will enable professionals in the NHS, industry and academia to collaborate more effectively and efficiently, further raise the quality of research, and bolster the UK's already-strong position in the face of the increasing dominance of the USA and the emergence of research in nations such as India and China.
John Hooper, ICR chief executive officer, said: "Medical research is already something that the UK can be proud of: this country is the birthplace of the controlled clinical trial, our academic tradition in the field is second to none, and on most measures it leads Europe in applied medical research.
"The public can be assured that this announcement is another measure to bring beneficial treatments through the development process more safely, quickly, and effectively.
"The Institute of Clinical Research is dedicated to raising standards, sharing knowledge and developing professionals in the field of medical research.
"Many professionals involved in this discipline in the UK are members of ICR, and we look forward to playing a significant role in the implementation and communication of these measures."
