UK Science Minister Warns of Necessary Price Hikes for NHS Medicines

UK Drug Price Rises 'Necessary', Says Science Minister Patrick Vallance The UK's National Health Service (NHS) is facing a potential increase in the prices it pays for medicines, with science minister Lord Patrick Vallance stating that price rises are "necessary" to prevent a wave of pharmaceutical investment from leaving the country. According to industry experts, several major drug companies have recently announced plans to either pause or scrap UK projects due to low prices for new drugs, lack of government investment, and tariff pressure from US President Donald Trump. This has raised concerns about the impact on patients and the NHS's ability to access life-saving treatments. The price increases would require significant funding, with estimates suggesting that the NHS could face an additional £1 billion in costs per year. However, Lord Vallance emphasized that this was a necessary step to ensure the UK remains an attractive location for pharmaceutical investment. "The price increases are going to be a necessary part of solving that problem," he said. "Where the additional money would come from to pay higher prices is a matter for the department of health and the Treasury to figure out." The comments follow the opening of US vaccine giant Moderna's new centre in Oxfordshire, where millions of flu and Covid jabs will be made. The facility is expected to create hundreds of jobs and generate significant economic growth. Industry experts have welcomed Lord Vallance's comments, arguing that higher prices would allow pharmaceutical companies to invest more in research and development, leading to the creation of new treatments and jobs. "This is a positive step towards creating a more sustainable and attractive environment for pharmaceutical investment," said a spokesperson for the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI). "We look forward to working with the government to ensure that any price increases are balanced against the benefits they bring to patients and the NHS." However, critics have expressed concerns about the impact on patients and the NHS's ability to access life-saving treatments. "While we understand the need for investment in the pharmaceutical industry, we must also prioritize the needs of patients and ensure that any price increases do not compromise their access to essential medicines," said a spokesperson for the Patients Association. The future outlook for the UK's pharmaceutical sector remains uncertain, with many companies still weighing up the costs and benefits of investing in the country. However, Lord Vallance's comments have provided a glimmer of hope for those seeking to attract investment and create jobs in the industry. As the government works to address the challenges facing the NHS and the pharmaceutical industry, one thing is clear: the UK's ability to access life-saving treatments and create jobs in the sector hangs in the balance. *Financial data compiled from Bbc reporting.*