Life sciences set to benefit as Andy Burnham prioritises devolution
Laragh Jeanroy, Partner and Co-head of Life Sciences at RSM UK, comments on Andy Burnham’s plans to drive devolution and reindustrialisation:
“Burnham made devolution a key focus in his first speech as PM in waiting and life sciences could be one of the main industries to benefit. While any new leader would inherit a fairly “locked-in” strategy for life sciences, the opportunity to reshape how it is delivered is still up for grabs.
“The industry wants to see more funding directed to regional clusters outside of areas like the South East, to unlock the full pipeline of potential across the UK. While major hubs such as Cambridge remain pivotal to the UK’s success in life sciences, shortfalls remain, including poor transport links, gaps in funding and talent shortages.
“Tackling these shortfalls will require integration with wider economic policy, which should be supported by Burnham’s emphasis on skills systems, local transport and infrastructure, and the reindustrialisation agenda.
“Although we’re yet to hear any plans for the NHS, greater collaboration between the life sciences industry and NHS must be fast-tracked to accelerate the adoption of new medicines in the health service. At present, the rollout of medical advancements is held back by the lack of a joined-up approach across the NHS, complex and bureaucratic processes, and out-of-date systems.”