In response to a Labour Party plan to boost 'life sciences' research and development, Ferelith Gaze, head of policy and public affairs, NHS Providers, said:

"The NHS plays a leading role in research and innovation which transforms services to give patients better care and outcomes.

"Trusts involved in research see better results for patients and have more engaged and motivated staff.

"Research must be put at the heart of how the NHS delivers care and be supported by greater investment, especially in the skilled staff and teams we need.

"The NHS is central to Britain's development of new medicines and healthcare technology benefitting patients. We must support even more NHS bodies to secure funds for vital research and develop their research facilities and capacity to help give people first-class care. We welcome all efforts to prioritise this."