OBJECTIVES: The UK political environment is causing both macro and micro-economic turbulence to a life science sector which still retains a reputation as one of the most attractive markets in the Western world. The research seeks to assess how political phenomena such as Brexit and the General Election result in June 2017 will affect the pricing and market access environment in the UK. METHODS: The research used a primary documentary approach to obtain data, which was then analysed using a qualitative interpretative method. The research was subsequently enhanced with semi-structured qualitative interviews and informal consensus groups with key stakeholders in the UK political/pricing and market access environment. RESULTS: Building out of the Accelerated Access Review (AAR), the future UK pricing and market access environment has many positive elements to help retain a leading role in the research, development and commercialisation of pharmaceuticals. However, concerns remain about the transparency of NHS England, the role of NICE, devolution and the wider impact of Brexit on the life science sector. Stakeholders stressed the requirement for stability and positive policy amid the political turmoil. CONCLUSIONS: Market access and policy are inextricably linked in the UK; and the importance of policy and political actors in the decision-making on pharmaceuticals cannot be underestimated. The UK faces considerable uncertainty both on a macro and micro-economic level and therefore stability in the 2019 PPRS renegotiations is vital if the UK wants to retain a leading global role in the life science sector.