UK Accelerates Clinical Trials to Deliver Treatments to Patients Sooner
The UK has announced major regulatory reforms designed to speed up clinical trial approvals and strengthen its position as a global hub for medical research. According to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), clinical trial applications rose by 9% in 2025, with strong growth in early‑phase and innovative studies.
From April, new regulations will introduce a fast‑track notification route for lower‑risk trials and a 14‑day assessment pathway for Phase 1 studies, measures expected to cut startup times while maintaining high safety standards. These updates aim to help patients access cutting‑edge treatments faster and boost the UK’s attractiveness for global research investment.
Read the full press release here: Patients to benefit sooner as UK boosts clinical trials attractiveness with faster assessments and agile regulation – GOV.UK