Reputation – General Public: Researching and developing new medicines

Positive views of medical research and development underpin overall positivity towards the sector.

Positive sentiment around research and development (R&D) and investments in medical innovation remain the foundation of public trust in pharma companies. Citizens have a clear sense that pharmaceutical companies produce effective medicines and vaccines that people need. There is a strong level of agreement the sector's R&D investments and highly skilled staff mean that people in the UK can access and use the latest technology. Many have a clear sense that pharma companies are expert - half describe these companies as ‘good at what they do’.

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The public see the UK pharmaceutical sector as world leading.  Almost two in three believe the sector is a global leader in discovering new medicines. In past waves, positivity around the sector’s response to COVID-19 coloured perceptions of the sector overall. This remains the case, and over two in three have faith in the sector’s ability to tackle future pandemics.  Public support extends beyond pandemic preparedness. There is strong support for researching and developing solutions to combat superbugs and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). There is also a growing sentiment that the government should also be taking a more active role in addressing the threat of AMR.

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