By Fineline Cube 
US‑based pharmaceutical giant Merck, Sharp & Dohme Inc. (MSD; NYSE: MRK) has announced the cancellation of a £1 billion expansion plan for its UK operations, citing a lack of sufficient government investment in the life‑science sector. The decision will see MSD relocate its research activities to the United States and eliminate 125 UK jobs.
Background
- £1 billion expansion – MSD had begun construction of a new facility in London’s King’s Cross district, slated for completion in 2027.
- Strategic shift – The company will vacate its laboratories at the London Bioscience Innovation Centre and the Francis Crick Institute by year‑end.
Company Rationale
- Undervaluation of innovation – MSD cited successive UK governments for “undervaluing innovative medicines.”
- Commercial imperative – The firm said the move is a “commercial decision” driven by the need for a more supportive investment climate.
Impact on the UK Life‑Science Landscape
- Job losses – 125 positions will be eliminated across multiple research sites.
- Investor confidence – BBC science experts warned that MSD’s withdrawal could deter other major pharma players from investing in the UK.
Government Reaction
- House of Commons – Science Minister Ian Murray described the decision as “deeply disappointing” but acknowledged it was a commercial choice.
- Policy implications – The announcement highlights ongoing tensions between the UK’s life‑science ambitions and its funding commitments.-Fineline Info & Tech