Iona James

Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, has said his Government is committed to reducing healthcare expenses for families, during a visit to a pharmacy in London on Monday 26 January, according to Pharmacy Business.

On 16 December 2025, the National Institute for Care and Excellence (NICE) announced that Professor Jonathan Benger CBE will be the organisation’s next Chief Executive, from Friday 19 December 2025. Professor Benger takes up his new role at a pivotal moment, as NICE plays a central part in delivering the Government’s 10 Year Health Plan for the NHS.

The UK Government announced on 1 December 2025 a landmark deal that is expected to benefit NHS patients by expanding access to vital medicines, strengthening the UK’s pharmaceutical supply chain, and attracting new investment into the country’s life sciences sector.

The NHS announced on 17 October 2025 that it would roll out a new long-acting injection to prevent HIV, as part of its ambition to become the first country in the world to end HIV transmissions by 2030.

The Government has appointed industry expert Steve Bates OBE as the new Executive Chair for the Office for Life Sciences. In his new role announced on 22 July 2025, Bates will act as an ambassador both domestically and internationally for the UK life sciences sector.

The UK Government unveiled its new Life Sciences Sector Plan on 16 July 2025, designed as a central pillar of its broader Industrial Strategy. The Plan lays out a 10-year mission to capitalise on British scientific leadership to drive long-term economic growth and deliver a more modern, prevention-focused NHS.[1]

The Government published its 10-Year Health Plan for England, Fit for the Future, on Thursday 3 July 2025. With NHS satisfaction at just 21 per cent, the new 10-Year Plan has arrived at a crucial moment, aiming to deliver the reform the NHS urgently needs.

Axel Heitmueller has been appointed as the Prime Minister’s Expert Adviser on Health. As part of his new responsibilities, he will advise ministers and help drive forward the Government’s vision for health and social care.

The Government announced on 13 March 2025 that NHS England will be abolished.  A decision of this significance at a time of high waiting lists for patients is a bold step by the Prime Minister and one that poses major challenges.  

On 5 December 2024, the Prime Minister presented the Government’s Plan for Change to Parliament. The Plan outlined five missions including building an NHS fit for the future. With the NHS under severe winter pressure, waiting times at an all-time high, and widespread dissatisfaction with patient care, action is needed.