Industry Responds to UK Government’s Approach to Future Relationship with EU

The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) has issued a statement noting that it shares the ambition of the United Kingdom’s government, as set out in its published approach to the negotiations for the future relationship with the European Union (EU).

In the published document, which was presented to parliament by the prime minister, the government has specified that it will seek to establish a future relationship with the EU that will not only benefit the UK but also strengthen the Union. However, the document also clearly states that there will be no extension to the transition period that has been provided for the withdrawal agreement.

“The government has set out a vision for a future relationship where both sides can work together in the interest of patient safety, public health, and the pursuit of scientific progress for UK and EU citizens,” said Richard Torbett, chief execuq of ABPI in a Feb. 27, 2020 press release. “As negotiations get underway, we urge ambition and pragmatism to achieve these goals.”

Specific areas of the government’s approach that were welcomed by the pharma industry include an annex on medicinal products, participation with Horizon Europe, and continued cooperation to prevent antimicrobial resistance. More information can be found on ABPI’s website and in the government document.

Sources: ABPI, Gov.uk