Pfizer's decision to close research and development facility
4 February 2011
The Committee has decided to hold an oral evidence session on Pfizer’s decision to close its research and development facility at Sandwich in Kent. The Committee is contacting Pfizer and Rt Hon David Willetts, Minister for Universities and Science, to arrange to take oral evidence. A further announcement will be made once a time and date has been arranged.
Andrew Miller MP, Chair of the Science and Technology Committee, said:
"Life sciences have been identified by both this and the last Government as a priority in the UK. Pfizer’s announcement that it will be closing its research and development facility in Kent is deeply worrying. It is not only a cruel blow for the Pfizer employees—many are highly skilled—but it also raises questions about UK plc’s ability to use science to drive the economy.
My Committee is contacting Pfizer and David Willetts. We have urgent questions that need answering."