HDA Media And Political Bulletin – 29 July 2016

28 July, The Pharmaceutical Journal

The Welsh government has announced that Andrew Evans has been appointed the new Chief Pharmaceutical Officer. He has unofficially been in the position since his predecessor, Roger Walker, retired in January. In his new role Evans will have responsibility for the modernisation of the pharmaceutical services in Wales as well as the training of the staff in the sector. He previously held the position of Post Principle Pharmacist for Public Health Wales.

Parliamentary Coverage

Diana Johnson: What his policy is on future UK involvement in the Innovative Medicines Initiative.

Department for Exiting the European Union

Mr David Davis:

The Innovative Medicines Initiative is a joint undertaking between the European Union and the pharmaceutical industry association EFPIA to boost biomedical innovation. The UK remains a member of the EU until our withdrawal is completed. UK researchers can still apply for Horizon 2020 projects. Future involvement will need to be agreed in forthcoming negotiations.

Full Coverage

Andrew Evans appointed chief pharmaceutical officer for Wales

28 July, The Pharmaceutical Journal

Andrew Evans has been appointed the new chief pharmaceutical officer for Wales, the Welsh government has announced.

Evans has been acting chief pharmaceutical officer since January 2016, when his predecessor Roger Walker retired. Evans has also held the post of principal pharmacist for Public Health Wales since 2012.

In a statement, Evans said that he is honoured to have the opportunity to help improve the health and well-being of the people of Wales. He also explained his priorities for Welsh pharmacists.

“Pharmacists in Wales are taking a central role in the Welsh government’s drive to provide patients with high-quality care promptly and closer to home. I look forward to working with pharmacists and other health and care professions, building on the significant improvements we have already made,” says Evans.

Evans will take responsibility for the modernisation of pharmaceutical services in Wales and the training and development of the staff that work in the sector. He will also be responsible for providing ministers with advice on medicines and their regulation.

Evans will officially take up his post on 8 August 2016.