British paediatrician, reformer, and peer
Pfizer has reported that its experimental drug sigvotatug vedotin did not improve survival in advanced non‑small cell lung cancer compared with standard therapy. The result setbacks expectations for a potential first‑in‑class antibody‑drug conjugate and follows Pfizer’s 2023 Seagen purchase.
The draft Conversion Practices Bill has been published, aiming to criminalise abusive acts intended to change or suppress LGBT+ identities. It sets two offences and introduces protections orders; penalties include unlimited fines and up to five years’ imprisonment. The government argues the law is needed to shield LGBT+ people, while critics warn it could curb honest discussions and raise civil liberty concerns.
A high-profile trial examining puberty blockers for about 220 children aged 11‑16 is moving forward after a High Court judge rejects a last-minute challenge to delay the Pathways study. The court has found no realistic prospect of success for the bid, and recruitment is set to begin from August 1 under strict safeguards.