§ 18. Mr. WatersonTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what benefits she expects to flow to the British pharmaceutical industry from the location of the European Medicines Evaluation Agency in London. [17578]
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyThe British pharmaceutical industry will have the advantage of easy access to the agency, which will be working in its language and will offer its products quicker access to the European single market, all of which means that there will be increased inward investment in the UK, more exports and more jobs.
§ Mr. WatersonDoes my right hon. Friend accept that many people will congratulate her and her colleagues in the Department on their work in ensuring that the European Medicines Evaluation Agency located in this country? Does she also accept that major pharmaceutical companies based in this country—such as Rhôone-Poulenc Rorer in my constituency—will be encouraged to make further investment in this country following that landmark decision?
§ Mrs. BottomleySafe and effective medicines are vital to the health and well-being of the country. A productive industry is excellent for the wealth of the country. Our success in winning the European Medicines Evaluation Agency has already resulted in major companies deciding further to expand their activities here—not least the further expansion by Bayer to locate its regulations centre here to take advantage of this new opportunity. Such companies greatly welcome the economic climate in this country, the strong economy and the deregulatory approach to industry.