Why I am supporting our life science sector
It is now beyond debate that the UK life science sector has saved millions of lives in the worst crisis in our lifetimes. The industry in general, and South Cambs companies in particular, have not only developed and produced a host of vaccines but also a range of treatments reducing the fatality rate.
I am extremely proud of the contribution made by companies and scientists right here in South Cambridgeshire, and think it is incredibly important that the Government is aware of the challenges faced by this sector and works to ensure they can overcome them. I've been championing our life science sector since my election, working to bring them closer to policymakers and help South Cambridgeshire retain our position as a life sciences superpower.
So far, I have
- Launched the South Cambs Life Science Forum, inviting local life science professionals to directly interact with senior policymakers.
- Hosted Cabinet Ministers and Ministers, including the Secretary of State for Business & Industry and the Life Science Minister.
- Called on the Science Minister to announce a budget commitment to the Biomedical Catalyst.
- Questioned the Science Minister in Parliament on what the government is doing to ensure that South Cambridgeshire remains a world-leading biomedical centre with continuity of funding after we leave the EU.
- Visited many major companies and campuses, including:
- The Cambridge Biomedical Campus
- Granta Park
- Babraham Research Campus
- Unity Campus
- Hauxton Mill
- Astrazeneca
- Solutions Labs
- Milner Theraputics
- Hosted a Westminster Hall debate on Life Science funding.
- Pressured mobile phone companies to fix issues with home working and signal for life science professionals.
- Hosted a conference of all local transport authorities on the Biomedical Campus to fix transportation issues on site.
- Hosted the Bioindustry Association's Parliament Day.
Campaign success
South Cambs remains a life science superpower, with private companies and educational establishments leading the way as innovators and explorers into new and exciting fields. Our area has never had more input into policymaking in this field, with ministerial visits and meetings as well as my own extremely high level of engagement in the sector. The UK biotech and life sciences sector will be a key part of future health and economic prosperity for decades to come, and I intend to support our companies as leaders of the world.