Academy supports European pledge for medical research

The Academy of Medical Sciences is supporting a campaign to ask UK MEP candidates to pledge support for European medical research

Ahead of the May 2014 European Elections, leading UK medical research charities, including the Academy, have launched a campaign to ask British MEP candidates to pledge their support to medical research.

Candidates are asked to commit to four key pledges.

Champion investment in medical research

• Support the European Commission's goal for 3% of EU GDP to be invested in research and development by 2020.
• Ensure the EU continues to fund promising avenues of research.

Create a place where research can flourish

• Consider medical research when scrutinising EU legislation and support initiatives to promote innovation.
• Allow patient data to be made available for research that saves and improves lives whilst protecting confidentiality and building trust.

Ensure people can have access to effective therapies faster

• Make the EU the primary destination to discover and develop safe and effective treatments for patients by creating a flexible regulatory and licensing system.
• Take opportunities to join-up health research across the EU where co-ordination can benefit patients.

Use research findings to make people healthier

• Use research findings to inform policy and maintain independent scientific advice for the EU.
• Ensure research results are published and data are made accesible to those who need them for the continued benefit of patients.

The Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC) is coordinating the campaign, which is also supported by Arthritis Research UK, Alzheimer's Research UK, Breast Cancer Campaign, Cancer Research UK, NHS European Office, Genetic Alliance UK, Parkinson's UK, the Wellcome Trust and Ovarian Cancer Action. The AMRC will publish a list of MEP candidates who have committed to the pledge.