Following publication of today’s Brexit no-deal preparedness notices and letters from the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Aisling Burnand, CEO of AMRC said:

“Publication of the Brexit no-deal contingency planning needed for the life sciences sector is a welcome but overdue step in the drive to make sure that there is no negative impact on patients whatever the final Brexit deal looks like. But there is still more guidance needed for patients, carers and their families.

“Delays at border controls are clearly anticipated in the event of a no-deal Brexit. The Secretary of State has written to reassure the public that plans are in place, so patients do not need take action themselves. However, patients, and the medical research charities who support them, will need more clarity that they will still be able to continue to get vital medication in the event of a no-deal Brexit.

“Given the tight timeframes, all those affected will need as much support as possible from Government in order to minimise disruption to the development of new treatments, the supply of vital medicines and opportunities to take part in clinical trials.

“We know that we, European patient groups and advocates, all speak with a single voice when we say no one should have their health put at risk by the Brexit deal.”