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US pharmaceutical giant Merck has decided to scrap a planned £1bn expansion of its operations in the UK due to what it perceives as a lack of investment from the government. The company, known as MSD in Europe, cited the undervaluing of innovative medicines by successive UK governments as a key factor in its decision. This move is expected to result in job cuts in the UK and a relocation of its life sciences research to the US.
The decision by Merck has raised concerns among experts in the science industry, with some suggesting that other major pharmaceutical companies could follow suit and stop investing in the UK. Sir John Bell, emeritus regius professor of medicine at Oxford University, noted that several bosses of major companies have expressed similar sentiments about halting further investments in the UK. The challenges posed by the lack of investment in the life science industry and the undervaluation of innovative medicines were highlighted as key issues.
Pharmaceutical companies have been increasingly focusing on investing in the US, partly due to pressure from President Donald Trump, who has threatened high tariffs on drug imports. Merck had already begun construction on a site in London but has now decided not to proceed with the project. The company’s decision to vacate its laboratories in London will lead to job losses for approximately 125 employees.
The UK pharmaceutical industry has faced setbacks in recent months, with other companies like AstraZeneca also scaling back investment plans. The lack of competitiveness of the UK market has been cited as a driving factor behind these decisions. The government has expressed a willingness to support those affected by Merck’s decision and has acknowledged the need for further efforts to attract and retain investment in the sector
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