HUNDREDS of high-quality jobs at pharmaceutical companies in Wiltshire could follow if more funding is earmarked for Research and Development, according recent research.

The research, carried out by the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI), found that if 3 per cent of GDP is spend on R & D on life sciences, 750 jobs and £54m of extra growth would be added to the South-West.

Much of the growth would come in established hotspots, such as Bristol and Wiltshire, the research said.

Swindon has several large firms in the area, such as Catalent, Thermo Fisher Scientific, based in Covingham, and Wasdell, the pharmaceutical packing and manufacturer.

Dr Richard Torbett from ABPI said: “Industries like pharmaceuticals have the potential to generate the jobs of tomorrow, as well as securing the thousands of jobs they provide in the South West today.

“Our scientists work hand-in-hand with the NHS to provide medicines which save and improve millions of lives in this country, around the world and in communities in this region.

“By investing in the life sciences like pharmacy we can be part of the battle against illnesses that continue to blight so many lives – while also helping to deliver jobs and prosperity in regions like the South West and across Britain.”

Martin Tedham, CEO of Wasdell, welcomed the move. “The opportunities for our local and regional economy are huge if we embrace the life sciences and collaborate on R&D and investment,” he says.

“You also only have to look at other places around Swindon, such as Reading, Oxford, Bath and Bristol to realise that making the sciences an economic and employment priority is reaping substantial rewards for them.

“With our national research councils on our doorstep, and Heathrow less than an hour away, Swindon is perfectly placed to grow its hi-tech, science-based industries."

"I am pleased the Government acknowledges the substantial economic and social benefits that more investment will bring, and am confident that Swindon will rise to this challenge and prove itself to be a leader in this field.”