ABPI welcomes new MHRA Chief Executive Officer

Lawrence Tallon has been named as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

In response to the announcement, Richard Torbet, Chief Executive of the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI), said: “Warm welcome to Lawrence Tallon on his appointment into this critical role. The agency plays an important role in protecting public health and bringing innovative medicines to patients. Our industry looks forward to working with him as he leads the MHRA through this next phase of evolution.

“The life sciences sector in the UK is at a critical point, and regulatory reliability and predictability remain a top priority for us. A strong, agile regulatory framework will be essential in enabling timely access to medicines while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety and efficacy.

“I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to Dame June Raine for her dedicated leadership and service to the MHRA and our industry. Her unwavering commitment to public health, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, has been of huge significance in shaping the UK’s regulatory landscape. We are grateful for her contributions and wish her all the best for the future.”

In December 2024, the ABPI published a new report with recommendations designed to help rebuild the UK’s world-class reputation in regulatory science, medicines development and licensing: ‘Enhancing the role of UK medicine regulation’.