The CHM advises on matters relating to safety, quality and the efficacy of medicines as well as the collection of adverse drug reactions.

Dr Angela Thomas is a consultant paediatric haematologist at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Edinburgh, a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians in Edinburgh, a former President of the British Society for Haematology and has been on the CHM since 2005, where she chairs the Clinical Trials, Biologicals & Vaccines Expert Advisory Group.

She has also served as a member and chaired many scientific and medical committees in the UK and Europe.

Dr Angela Thomas said: “I am delighted to be taking up this new role. The Commission plays a vital role in the licensing of new medicines and in monitoring drug safety. I have found my time as a member of CHM tremendously rewarding and am looking forward to the challenges offered in my new role as vice-chair.”