Scientific Research: What should the UK prioritise?

Tomorrow, Tuesday 1 July, the House of Lords Science and Technology Committee will embark on a short inquiry into the national priorities for scientific research.

With research areas as diverse as energy, the digital economy, robotics, space exploration, food security and regenerative medicine, to name a few, the Committee will look at the issue of where public funds should be directed, and why.

It will also explore the changes that need to take place to improve further the UK's international standing in science and innovation.

Witnesses attending the first of three evidence sessions are Dr Sarah Main, Director, Campaign for Science and Engineering; Professor Graeme Reid, Professor of Science and Research Policy, University College London; and Mr Kevin Baughan, Director of Technology and Innovation, Technology Strategy Board. 

Questions they will be asked include:

• What are the main priorities for scientific research?
• What are the challenges in setting out priorities?
• Should we prioritise according to direct benefit to society?
• Should we prioritise according to economic benefits to UK plc?
• Should we aim for excellence in a few areas, rather than competence across them all?
• Who should decide where we as a country should focus our research – the researchers or the funders?
• Where does the research strategy leave the overall science budget?

The evidence session will be held on Tuesday 1 July, at 10.40 in Committee Room 4 of the House of Lords.

The session will be webcast at www.parliamentlive.tv and is also open to the public. Journalists wishing to attend should go to Parliament's Cromwell Green Entrance and should allow time for security screening.