Research-based drug companies are asking for swift implementation of UK clinical trial reforms to ensure the country does not lose out on commercial trial activity amid challenges such as capacity constraints in the NHS and delays in regulatory approvals.

Efforts are on to reduce the time it takes to set up commercial studies in UK hospitals.

The UK medicines regulator has published a new plan to deliver on several short-term projects as it tries to keep pace with the fast-moving life sciences sector and the needs of patients.