Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of changes in levels of funding for medicines on life sciences research.

The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology is working closely with the Department of Health and Social Care on the current Mid Scheme Review for the Voluntary Scheme for branded medicines pricing, access and growth (VPAG) and is aware of the impact which funding of medicines could have on life sciences research. In addition, the upcoming Life Sciences Sector Plan will set out a bold vision to strengthen world-class R&D, attract global investment, and accelerate healthcare innovation to ensure the UK remains a strong place for life sciences research.