Drug development is at risk from proposed takeover of AstraZeneca, MPs are told

Development of important and potentially lifesaving drugs could be disrupted and delayed if a proposed takeover of AstraZeneca by the giant US drug company Pfizer goes ahead, MPs have been told.

The impact of such a takeover was discussed at an evidence session on 13 May of the House of Commons Business, Innovation and Skills Committee as part of its inquiry into the future of the UK drug company AstraZeneca.1

Pascal Soriot, chief executive officer of AstraZeneca, appearing before the committee, said that AstraZeneca was a “science led” organisation. He acknowledged that Pfizer was a strong and “effective commercial” company, but added, “We think we are successful and can continue …