The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has launched an inquiry into the UK government’s response to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a growing global health crisis responsible for an estimated 1.3 million deaths annually, including 2,200 in the UK in 2023. AMR, caused by the overuse and misuse of antibiotics, threatens modern medicine, making even routine infections potentially deadly.
As part of the inquiry, the committee will scrutinise the government’s progress in tackling AMR, particularly through its 2019-24 National Action Plan (NAP) and the ambitions outlined in the 2024-29 NAP. With the UN predicting that AMR-related deaths could soar to 10 million per year by 2050, the committee will assess systemic risks posed by AMR and determine whether current government action aligns with previous parliamentary recommendations. This assessment will be informed by the National Audit Office’s latest findings.
Evidence submissions are open until 13 March 2025, allowing stakeholders to contribute to shaping the UK’s AMR strategy.
BMA tackles AMR and water scarcity through the Windsor Declaration
The Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA) has also taken a proactive stance in addressing AMR. Last year, the association hosted the Windsor Summit to recognise the link between water scarcity, hygiene, and the spread of drug-resistant bacteria. Industry leaders gathered to discuss how bathroom product innovations can mitigate AMR risks while promoting water efficiency.
During the summit, ten of the world’s leading bathroom manufacturers signed a landmark agreement, the Windsor Declaration, to reduce water waste from toilets, taps, and showers. At the same time, they committed to designing new products that help limit the spread of bacteria such as Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) and Escherichia coli (E. coli). These commitments are expected to significantly impact billions of lives by enhancing hygiene standards and addressing critical global health challenges.
The Windsor Declaration has set a precedent for the global bathroom industry, calling on manufacturers worldwide to mitigate AMR and water scarcity risks. By prioritising water conservation and hygiene, the industry aims to play a crucial role in combating one of the most pressing health threats of our time.
Moving forward: A collaborative effort
As the UK government faces scrutiny over its response to AMR, the collaborative efforts between policymakers and industries like the bathroom manufacturing sector demonstrate a multifaceted approach to addressing this crisis. The PAC inquiry will be instrumental in determining the effectiveness of current policies and identifying areas that require urgent action.
With the deadline for evidence submissions set for 13 March 2025, stakeholders—including healthcare professionals, researchers, and industry leaders—are encouraged to contribute their insights to help shape a robust national strategy against AMR. The combined efforts of government oversight, industry innovation, and public awareness will be crucial in curbing the spread of drug-resistant bacteria and safeguarding public health for future generations.