David Willetts has invited George Freeman MP to advise him on the life sciences.

Mr Freeman was elected MP for Mid Norfolk in 2010 after a 15 year career in biomedical research. He will be taking a high-level view across the sector and advising the Minister for Universities and Science on the economic impact of life sciences in the UK. He will also identify opportunities to build understanding between Government, business, and academia.

He will be working alongside Chris Brinsmead, the Government's Life Sciences Business Adviser. Mr Brinsmead will continue to provide advice and challenge to Ministers at the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills and the Department of Health and champion the UK as an investment location of choice.

The Office for Life Sciences (OLS) is part of the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills. Our partnership with the Department of Health brings together the sponsorship of biotechnology (BIS), together with that of pharmaceutical and medical technology industries (which rest with DH). We also work closely with UK Trade & Investment (UKTI), Department for Environment and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC), other government departments, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), the NHS and the life sciences industry.

Life sciences is an important growth area and can also help the UK meet societal challenges such as improving healthcare, improving sustainability and decarbonising our economy. Our ambition is to be the location of choice for life sciences R&D and manufacturing investment.

The industry is high-tech and innovative and of vital importance to UK economic prosperity and growth.  Through the development of innovative medicines, medical technologies and services, companies can assist in improving the quality and delivery of healthcare services, contributing to better health, well-being and quality of life.