Government supports science and innovation in reshuffle

The latest Government reshuffle demonstrates a commitment to science and innovation. It creates a new Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, led by Secretary of State Michelle Donelan.

Dr Joe Marshall, Chief Executive of the National Centre for Universities and Business, said: “The machinery of government changes today – including the establishment of a dedicated Department for Science, Innovation and Technology – show the importance the Government is placing in R&D in powering its economic growth plan. I warmly congratulate Michelle Donelan as the Secretary of State as she takes on this crucial and exciting portfolio.

“Getting the right structures in place matters, but it does not by itself work through the growing in-tray of important issues that need to be solved if we are to unleash the huge potential of UK universities and innovative businesses. The Government needs to draw up clear plans to break the deadlock around Horizon Europe association, to ensure we can train and attract a workforce to power our future economy, and to maximise the deployment of the rising national R&D budget to bring universities and businesses together to grow important sectors and solve economic and societal challenges.”