Eli Lilly and Co. (NYSE:LLY) CEO Dave Ricks strongly criticized the United Kingdom's approach to drug pricing, describing it as "probably the worst country in Europe" for pharmaceutical prices.

He warned that patients may miss out on new medicines if conditions do not improve.

Ricks' comments, made in an interview with the Financial Times, intensify the growing backlash from global drugmakers who argue that Britain's pricing policies and rebate rules undermine innovation and investment in the country.

Reuters reported that at the center of the dispute is the VPAG rebate scheme, a government agreement with the pharmaceutical industry and the National Health Service (NHS).

Also Read: Pharmaceutical Firms Say UK Investment Is ‘Unlikely' Unless Payment Levy Is Addressed

The program is designed to control the NHS drug budget while supporting patient access and the broader life sciences sector. However, executives like Ricks argue that the scheme penalizes companies for their success by clawing back a