Quintiles (NYSE: Q) is proposing to shut down a Phase 1 clinical trial unit in London which employs some 170 doctors and other staff, a company spokesperson tells WRAL TechWire.

“In reviewing our early clinical development model, Quintiles is assessing how many beds we will need in our Phase I facilities and hence, we are proposing to close our London Phase I unit,” said Phil Bridges, senior director of corporate communications.

However, no final decision has been made, he added.

“This is only a proposal at this time, and we are currently in the consultation process with our staff in this unit,” Bridges said.

Early Friday, a London newspaper reported that Quintiles is “set to pull the plug” on the unit. The People’s Daily Morning Star claimed that the unit has been losing money “for years.”

The unit is located at Guy’s Hospital in South London.

Bridges said the review of what to do about the unit is ongoing.

“During the consultation process, Quintiles’ primary focus is to maintain high-quality delivery, to safeguard volunteers, maintain data integrity and to treat our employees with integrity and respect,” Bridges said in response to a query from WTW.

“When conducting clinical research, Quintiles places the utmost importance on ensuring the safety of patients, regardless of the location or development phase.”

Quintiles is based in Durham.