9. Short Debate: Benefits of medical research in Wales

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 6:39 pm on 8 February 2023.

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Photo of Rhun ap Iorwerth Rhun ap Iorwerth Plaid Cymru 6:39, 8 February 2023

(Translated)

May I thank Russell George for bringing forward this short debate at the Senedd today? I just want to echo the comments that have been made already about the benefit that can come to us in so many ways in developing medical trials in Wales. The benefits come to patients, clearly, because the closer patients are to where trials are taking place the greater the chance that they can become part of those trials, and there are clear opportunities in terms of health that emanate from that. It is a way of strengthening our workforce. People want to work where the most innovative work is being done, be that research staff, scientific staff and clinical staff too. There are clear economic benefits in developing the life sciences sector, which has firm foundations in Wales but has significant room for growth. Tying the industry, with that commercial element, with the need to promote research within our universities is something that I hope that we can all, as Members of the Senedd here, be supportive of. Once again, I'm very grateful that this issue has been raised before us today.