Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Cell and Gene Therapies: Skills Provision

07 September 2023 · 0 other contributors

Opened by Liz Twist Lab Blaydon and Consett

Science & TechnologyNHS

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Liz Twist raised concerns about cell and gene therapies: skills provision in the House of Commons. A government minister responded.

Key points

  • The MP highlighted the potential of new cell and gene therapies to transform treatment options for patients with rare genetic conditions.
  • The speech included specific examples from her constituents who have benefited from SMA treatments.
  • The Minister noted several initiatives supporting workforce skills in cell and gene therapies, including an apprenticeship community and a biomanufacturing fund.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Liz Twist Lab Blaydon and Consett

The MP highlighted the potential of new cell and gene therapies to transform treatment options for patients with rare genetic conditions. She emphasised the importance of timely development, delivery and workforce readiness in ensuring equitable access to these therapies. The speech included specific examples from her constituents, Freddie and Louis, who have benefited from SMA treatments. Liz Twist called for a comprehensive strategy involving education initiatives, training programmes, and collaboration among industry, academia, and government.

Government Response

Will Quince

The Minister acknowledged the importance of workforce skills in advancing cell and gene therapies, noting that the UK leads in this field with a growing number of clinical trials. He highlighted several initiatives such as the advanced therapies apprenticeship community, which has supported over 300 apprentices; the biomanufacturing fund receiving up to £38 million; and the medicines manufacturing skills centre of excellence, receiving £5.5 million. The Minister also mentioned collaborations with the National Institute for Health and Care Research and the Medical Research Council for research and regulatory pathways support.

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