BIA to Hold Events Aimed at Preparing Life Sciences Businesses for Brexit

On Sep. 25, 2019, the UK BioIndustry Association (BIA) revealed it will be hosting a series of events and webinars in conjunction with One Nucleus, BioNow, and MediWales to support small-and-medium sized enterprises (SMEs) in life sciences in the preparations for a possible ‘no-deal’ Brexit.

Various consortia events will be held across the United Kingdom, including at the UK Bioscience Forum, which is taking place in London on Oct. 17, 2019. Additionally, BIA’s monthly Brexit webinar briefings are going to be increased in frequency to a weekly format, beginning this Friday Sep. 27, 2019.

“The UK life sciences sector in conjunction with the Department of Health, Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), and National Health Service have been developing stockpiles, expediting batch releases, and determining alternative routing plans,” said Steve Bates, CEO of BIA. “However, with weeks to go till a possible no-deal Brexit we are aware of a wide range of life sciences companies (particularly SMEs) who require more information on what a possible no-deal Brexit means for their company. The BIA is significantly expanding its outreach and support to these companies to ensure they are ready for Oct. 31, 2019. The Government has repeated its intention to leave the European Union on Oct. 31, 2019 with or without a deal and despite parliament’s recent actions, it would be unwise for companies to assume that a no-deal Brexit has now been ruled out.”

Issues that are likely to be raised by companies include staffing, taxation, borders, and payments. The various events and weekly briefings will enable companies to keep up-to-date with Brexit news, government guidance, and advice on the situation as well as allowing for discussion with peers.

A full list of events being held by BIA in relation to Brexit preparedness can be found on the association’s website.

Source: BIA