AI-Generated Summary

The UK Science Minister warns that NHS medicine prices 'must increase' to prevent a continued exodus of pharmaceutical investment from Britain. Citing recent decisions by Merck and AstraZeneca, the minister emphasized that these price adjustments are crucial for fostering innovation and ensuring patient access to advanced medicines. He acknowledged that while potentially impacting UK households, these changes are a necessary response to global market dynamics and the need to remain competitive.

In a nutshell

This analysis highlights the critical tension between national healthcare cost containment and maintaining a competitive environment for pharmaceutical innovation and investment. It underscores the complex policy challenges governments face in balancing public health expenditure with industry sustainability and access to cutting-edge treatments.

Source: Birmingham Live