Andy Burnham Faces Pressure to Scrap UK-US Drug Trade Deal

The UK-US medicines trade pact, signed in December 2025, obliges the NHS to buy drugs at US-linked prices. Ministers say it protects drug exports and widens access. Modelling by the University of York, the University of Liverpool and Christchurch Hospital in New Zealand estimates £44.7-£45 billion will be diverted from NHS services by 2036 and projects 229,000 excess deaths. A Guardian analysis warned of more than 200,000 avoidable deaths and noted 16,000 deaths linked to delayed emergency care.

The Guardian

UK ministers defend the pact as protecting export markets and expanding therapeutic options. Andy Burnham, set to become Labour leader, declined comment. A coalition of 19 health groups, coordinated by SOS NHS and signed by Medact, the Doctors’ Association UK, Doctors in Unite and Keep Our NHS Public, urged Burnham to scrap the deal and to review private-provider expansion, PFI contracts at neighbourhood health centres and the Palantir contract.

The Guardian

Analyses differ on health impact: one report cites “more than 200,000” avoidable deaths, another estimates 229,000 excess deaths by 2036. Financial forecasts range from £44.7 billion to £45 billion in diverted NHS spending. As Burnham prepares to assume Labour leadership, campaigners demand a meeting on repeal, but no government timetable has been set, leaving the deal’s future uncertain.

The Guardian

• “At a time when patients are waiting longer than ever for treatment, handing over billions more to US pharmaceutical giants is like trying to put out a fire while pouring petrol on the flames.” — Dr Tony O’Sullivan, co-chair, Keep Our NHS Public

The Guardian

• “Every year, around 16,000 people die unnecessarily because of delays in emergency care, maternity services continue to fail families, and millions are stuck on waiting lists.” — Hope Worsdale, Just Treatment

The Guardian

• “We are asking Andy Burnham to meet with campaigners and listen to those with deep experience of the NHS and social care. His transition into government is a chance to draw a line under policies that have put corporate interests ahead of patients, restore public trust and staff morale, and recognise that health, care and education are the foundations of a thriving society and economy.” — Hope Worsdale, Just Treatment

The Guardian

• “It’s a deeply shocking betrayal of the NHS and the British public. Andy Burnham has said this is the last chance to save the Labour party. It is also the last chance to save the NHS,” she said. — Hope Worsdale, Just Treatment

The Guardian