ABPI responds to MHRA recent guidance on Brexit implementation

The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) has responded to the recent publication of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) technical guidance on what the Brexit implementation means for life sciences. 

Dr Sheuli Porkess, deputy chief scientific officer for the ABPI said: 

“Pharmaceutical companies need as much clarity as possible so they can continue to supply medicines to patients as the UK leaves the EU. Today’s guidance from Government is welcome, as is the reiteration of the UK’s preference for close cooperation with the EU across all aspects of medicines regulation.

"There are still some unanswered questions. We are clear that there needs to be an implementation period but whether there will be one is still subject to negotiation. The document also states that the future role of the MHRA, whose expertise is vital, is also still being discussed.

"The industry will continue to plan for all scenarios, including ‘no deal’. We believe that the best way to protect patients and public health is for the EU and UK to agree continued cooperation on the regulation of medicines."