Government Industrial Strategy recognises role of diagnostics
IBMS welcomes focus on life sciences and awaits detail on diagnostic workforce, innovation and reform
The Government’s new 10-year Industrial Strategy sets out a broad ambition to revitalise the UK economy by supporting key sectors, including life sciences, clean energy and digital technologies. The IBMS welcomes this renewed focus on strategic planning and long-term investment — particularly the recognition of diagnostics and laboratory science as essential to healthcare reform and national resilience. We look forward to the publication of the detailed Life Sciences Sector Plan, which is expected to outline specific proposals for diagnostics, workforce development and innovation.
We are encouraged to see targeted funding and reform proposals aimed at strengthening the life sciences sector, including:
- Up to £600 million for a unified Health Data Research Service.
- Continued implementation of the O’Shaughnessy Review to accelerate clinical trials.
- A bespoke support mechanism for large-scale investment in life sciences manufacturing.
- Regulatory reform to speed up safe access to new diagnostics and devices.
- Commitments to support scaling UK-based life sciences firms.
The proposals for NHS-focused innovation and streamlined MedTech adoption pathways are especially welcome. However, successful delivery will depend on a robust, future-ready pathology and laboratory workforce. Biomedical scientists are key to the safe deployment, evaluation and integration of diagnostic technologies across the healthcare system.
We also support the commitment to enhancing the UK’s skills pipeline. This must include support for professional registration routes, vocational pathways, and advanced training for healthcare scientists. As the Government develops its sector-specific plans and talent programmes, we urge recognition of the critical need for investment in the diagnostic workforce and infrastructure.
We will continue to engage with policymakers and industry partners to ensure that diagnostic services — and the professionals who deliver them — are central to the delivery of a healthier, more innovative UK.