UK Scientists Welcome Governments New Technology Plan But Say More Funding Needed

Scholars welcomed the launch of the government's 10-point plan to help solidify Britain's status as the world's science and technology superpower, but said additional funding, including full membership in EU programs, was needed to achieve its goals.

The science and technology framework unveiled on Monday is the first major achievement of the new Department of Science, Innovation and Technology. It outlines 10 key actions for industry, innovation and research to create high-paying jobs, spur economic growth in critical industries, and improve people's lives.

This includes identifying, exploiting and achieving strategic advantages in modern industries, encouraging public and private investment in research and development, and funding innovative start-ups and science and technology companies.

An additional £370m has been announced, including £250m to strengthen the UK's leadership in artificial intelligence, quantum computing and synthetic biology.

Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology Michelle Donnellan said: “Innovation and technology are our future. They hold the keys to everything from boosting productivity and wages, transforming healthcare and lowering energy costs, to creating jobs and growing the UK economy.

Professor Sir Adrian Smith, President of the Royal Society, said the announcement confirms that research and innovation is at the heart of the government's productivity and growth agenda and plans to strengthen the UK's position. As a scientific and technological superpower.

However, access to the EU's flagship Horizon Europe program will be critical in this regard. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said last week that it could be possible in the last post-Brexit trade deal between the EU and the UK, but it is not yet guaranteed. . Even so, it could be several years before funding and participation return to pre-Brexit levels.

"Today's announcement is welcome and one of the first steps in moving from words to deeds should be full participation in EU funding programmes," he said. “This is the cornerstone of the global reach of the UK science sector. While the extension of funding commitments announced today is a good step, if the EU removes the barriers, it will be another adjustment if a quick partnership is needed. We need a strong commitment from the Prime Minister to achieve full association."

Dr Tim Bradshaw, chief executive of the Rule Group of Universities, said even the £370m of new funding was far short of the £1.6bn proposed for research cooperation with the EU, which the Treasury Department recently announced had been cut. The funds were not used due to delays caused by a protocol dispute in Northern Ireland.

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“In addition to investment, an important component of world-class research is collaboration,” said Bradshaw. "The political hurdles that have hampered the UK's relationship with Horizon Europe have now been removed and the government's main focus is on completing the agreement reached two years ago."

An independent review of research, development and innovation in the UK has also been published by Sir Paul Nurse, director of the Francis Crick Institute in London. In particular, he concluded that financial support from the government is limited and less than that of other competing countries. The way the UK conducts and supports research is also "outstanding", he said.

“My assessment of the R&D landscape set out recommendations for an overall R&D effort that, taken together, will provide an intergovernmental blueprint for the UK to become a true science superpower,” Nurse said.