Improving efficiency

Secretary of State Announces National Cancer Plan for England

On 4 February 2026, the Secretary of State launched the National Cancer Plan for England, an ambitious 10-year strategy (2026–2035) to reform cancer care. The Plan spans prevention, service redesign, and research, alongside a strong emphasis on digital, data and innovation.

Public Services Committee publishes report calling for stronger medicines supply leadership

The House of Lords Public Services Committee has published its report titled ‘Medicines security—a national priority’ finding that medicine supply shortages are not prioritised as a national security issue with the Government and NHS lacking oversight and coordination over medicine resilience. It highlights fragile global supply chains, increasing shortages reported by pharmacy workers and the UK’s reliance on China and India for active ingredients leaving patients at risk when essential medicines are unavailable. The report recommends treating medicine security as a national security issue improving communication of shortages across the supply chain boosting UK manufacturing of generic medicines and publishing a Critical Medicines List to strengthen resilience.

PMCPA publishes updated social media guidance

The Prescription Medicines Code of Practice Authority (PMCPA) has published updated social media guidance, now presented as a standalone section of its website. The revised guidance has been developed in collaboration with a range of stakeholders, including the MHRA, the ABPI, and representatives from pharmaceutical companies.

DSIT announces new UK–Japan science and technology partnerships

The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has announced a package of UK–Japan science and technology collaborations spanning life sciences, quantum technologies and connectivity technology. The development aims to develop treatments for rare genetic diseases and support seamless mobile coverage across the UK. The partnerships include around £11m investment by Orchard Therapeutics into UK life sciences manufacturing, joint UK–Japan funding for quantum technologies to support drug discovery, secure communications and navigation, and a new £6m UK–Japan research and innovation programme on advanced connectivity. The announcement also includes Oxford Nanopore Technologies entering a strategic partnership with Genesis Healthcare (A.D.A.M Innovations) alongside the launch of three new joint quantum technology research projects.