The Microbiology Society informs House of Commons report on antimicrobial resistance

18 June 2025

In March 2025, the Microbiology Society submitted a response to the UK Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) inquiry into antimicrobial resistance (AMR). We are pleased to share that our evidence was considered and quoted in the final inquiry report, which was published last week.

Our response was informed by the views of our members and the wider AMR community, gathered through our ‘Knocking Out AMR’ project. This ambitious, bold and extensive scheme of work aims to promote feasible and effective solutions to AMR, including stepping up a mandate for policy action.

AMR is a major public health threat that undermines the effectiveness of essential medical treatments, including surgeries, cancer therapies and organ transplants. Without urgent action, drug-resistant infections could lead to 39 million deaths globally by 2050, with healthcare costs projected to reach $900 billion annually.

We welcome the recognition of our evidence in the Committee’s report. Key points highlighted include:

• The impact of cuts to development aid on the UK’s role in tackling AMR globally.
• The role of wastewater in spreading resistant infections.
• Concerns around transparency and accountability in the UK’s AMR strategy and the importance of reviewing progress against AMR targets by the end of 2025.
• The urgent need for increased investment in diagnostic tools and broader scientific research.

We greatly appreciate any opportunity to contribute to evidence-based policymaking and are delighted that our evidence has proved useful to the Committee. The Microbiology Society has access to a broad, deep range of expertise and is well-placed to provide support, evidence and advice to policymakers.

You can read our full response to the call for evidence on our website and the inquiry report online.