by Martin Jefferies

Bosses at pharmaceutical company Pfizer are being grilled by MPs this afternoon over their decision to shut their factory in Kent.

Among those giving evidence to the science and technology select committee is Dr Ruth McKernan, the head of the company's research and development site at Sandwich.

The doomed site is to close over the next two years with the loss of up to 2,400 staff.

Richard Blackburn, managing director of Pfizer UK, is also expected to give evidence, while David Willetts, the government's universities and science minister, will speak tomorrow.

Laura Sandys, the MP for South Thanet, who helped set up a government task force in the wake of Pfizer's shock announcement earlier this month, has submitted written evidence to the committee.

She said: "I welcome the select committee's concerns over the impact of Pfizer's closure on east Kent and the wider pharmaceutical industry.

"This enquiry recognises not just the importance of the Pfizer site locally but also its national prominence.

"We hope the company will show its commitment to securing a future for the state of the art site and its world class staff."

Pfizer has had a presence at Sandwich for more than 50 years.

The world-renowned base has played a crucial role in the discovery and development of many life-saving treatments and medicines during that time.

Speaking earlier this month, Dr McKernan, who is also a senior vice president at the company, said: "Sandwich has an extremely talented workforce with a proud and rich history in science research and development.

"We recognise this is a difficult time for colleagues and the community and our priority is to support our people through this process."