Pfizer boss claims 'win-win' AstraZeneca deal

The boss of US drug giant Pfizer has said the firm’s proposed takeover of British-based AstraZeneca is a “win-win for society”.

Pfizer chairman and chief executive Ian Read said the £60bn-plus deal would “liberate the balance sheet and tax” of both companies after Prime Minister David Cameron insisted the American firm must provide more assurances about its commitment to Britain.