Intervention and Technological Innovation

Controversy continues about the ability of the state to promote international competitiveness of industry in general and of specific industries in particular. This study examines how the policies of the British and Japanese governments have affected the development of the pharmaceutical industries in each country. Three areas are given close attention: policies which aim to control prices or profits; patent policy; and science and technology promotion policy, particularly policies for biotechnology. Prospects for these policies are considered in the context of moves towards harmonisation of pharmaceutical regulation.