A lost decade

Article

Successive governments have lauded the life sciences as a pillar of the UK economy in recent years. David Cameron talked about “a jewel in the crown”. Theresa May set out her ambition to make Britain “the global go-to place for scientists, innovators and tech investors”. And Boris Johnson has already committed to ‘supercharge’ UK science following Brexit.

There is optimism around the potential for growth in the industry – driven in no small part by a uniquely exciting moment for scientific advances.

However, new IPPR analysis shows that we have had a lost decade that has left one of our strongest sectors stagnating, even before accounting for its significant vulnerability to an unmanaged, no-deal Brexit.

In this briefing we set out key tests for policymakers looking to take the requisite steps to mitigate Brexit, as part of a strategy to support and invest in our life sciences industry.

Related items

  1. Towards universal opportunity for young people

    Outlining a vision for young people which could increase social mobility while also reducing inequality and disadvantage, so that every young person has the opportunity to build a decent life.

  2. One year in: the government is making decent down payments for the years ahead

    It’s fair to say it hasn’t been a straightforward first year for the government. 

  3. Britons back local leaders with fiscal firepower

    “Death and taxes,” they say, are life’s only certainties. But there’s a third - wherever taxes are controlled, power lies.