Published 22 November 2023

In response to the Autumn Statement, Nicola Perrin, CEO of Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC), said:

"We are pleased to see the Government give so much focus to science and innovation in the Autumn Statement.   We know that tackling the health crisis is not simple but investment in research is an essential starting point.  We believe that by supporting the fundamental building blocks underpinning the UK’s life sciences, access to innovation will be accelerated bringing health benefits to patients sooner.  We look forward to adding charity voice to the implementation of these welcome announcements."

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Commenting on the government's response to the Sir Paul Nurse Independent Review of the Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Organisational Landscape, Nicola said:

"We’re delighted that this response focuses on encouraging different types of philanthropic investment while recognising the existing £2 billion of home-grown charitable support for UK research. However, it’s important that any incentives available to international philanthropists don’t outstrip support for UK charities, who play a vital role by championing patient priorities, addressing areas of unmet need and accelerating impact.

The response rightly identifies the UK’s uniquely diverse research base. We support the government’s commitment to investing in the fundamental building blocks that underpin this system – this will ensure that funding continues to be leveraged from charities, philanthropists, industry and beyond.

We look forward to working with the government and others in the sector on next steps."

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Commenting on the government's response to the Lord O’Shaughnessy's review of commercial clinical trials in the UK, Nicola said:

"Trials of all kinds, for all conditions, at all stages, both commercial and led by charities are vital to those in urgent need of treatment. We are pleased the Government has committed to fix the problems in the current system identified in Lord O’Shaughnessy’s report. We need them fixed urgently. But ask for caution not to destabilise a finely balanced trial portfolio by skewing the focus to commercial numbers rather than impact."

Read our more on our response and further information on our blog.

Read the blog