GlaxoSmithKline welcomes new government life science strategy

GlaxoSmithKline has offered its support for new strategies unveiled by the government to support the life science research sector.

The company has described the new initiatives, which will see NHS patient data made available for use in medical research, as being potentially instrumental to future industry growth.

Pharmaceutical companies, academics and other health sector staff will be able to view linked datasets from GP and hospital care, providing insight into disease development and treatment efficacy.

Responding to the news, GlaxoSmithKline said this will help to strengthen the attractiveness of the UK to life science companies, while improving patient access to innovative new medicines.

The firm will now work alongside the government to ensure that the new policies are able to deliver on their potential.

"As a global company with very strong roots in the UK, GlaxoSmithKline is positive about Britain's future prospects as a place to research, develop, manufacture and commercialise our medicines," said a company statement.