Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what assessment he has made of the contribution of (a) the use of advanced cultures of human cells and tissues, (b) artificial intelligence and organ-on-a-chip technology and (c) other new approach methodologies (NAMs) to tackling the seven great healthcare challenges referenced in the Government’s Life Sciences Vision; and what steps he plans to take to provide further support to those methodologies.

In developing the Life Science Vision, the Government worked with global academic and industrial leaders to identify areas of scientific and research potential which could be harnessed to address the seven identified healthcare missions. Detailed implementation plans for the missions are now being developed. No specific assessment has yet been made of the contribution of the use of advanced cultures of human cells and tissues, artificial intelligence and organ-on-a-chip technology and other new approach methodologies. However, the Vision is being guided by the best available science and will take into consideration the potential contribution of the latest advancements in life sciences in delivering the healthcare missions.