Former US President Donald Trump has made a striking appeal to UK-based pharmaceutical giants, urging them to lower the costs of medicines supplied to the National Health Service (NHS). His demand has reignited discussions about the affordability of healthcare and the role of big pharma in public health systems.
Trump's Call for Affordable Healthcare
In a rare intervention into UK domestic policy, Trump emphasised the need for pharmaceutical firms to prioritise public health over profits. "The NHS is a vital institution, and British patients deserve access to affordable treatments," he stated.
Industry Response
While some industry leaders have welcomed the dialogue, others have pushed back, citing the high costs of research and development. A spokesperson for a major UK pharmaceutical company said, "We invest billions in life-saving treatments, and pricing reflects this innovation."
Political Reactions
The demand has drawn mixed reactions from UK politicians. Some backbench MPs have praised Trump's stance, while government ministers have been more cautious, stressing the importance of maintaining the UK's competitive pharmaceutical sector.
The Bigger Picture
This development comes amid growing scrutiny of drug pricing globally. With healthcare budgets under strain, the debate over fair pricing for essential medicines shows no signs of abating.
