Lords Science Committee to quiz Government Chief Scientific Adviser

On Tuesday 17 November the committee will question Sir Mark Walport on issues such as future research priorities, the role of the Government in directing science funding, the effects of cuts on R&D spending, whether regulation is stifling growth, and the implications of localism  on science advice.

He may also be asked about areas that relate to the current Committee inquiry into genetically modified insects.

Questions he might face, at 10.40am, include:

• What are the current horizon scanning priorities within the Government Office for Science? How are these priorities arrived at?
• Do GMOs present an area where regulation can serve to stifle innovation?
• How do diverse national policies on, and public attitudes towards, issues such as GMOs cause tensions?
• Who should decide the direction of Government funding on research?
• Have cuts to departmental research budgets compromised the ability of Government Departments to conduct wide ranging and quality research to inform scientific advice?

The evidence session will start at 10:40am on Tuesday 17 November with evidence from Sir Mark Walport. It will be in Committee Room 4A of the House of Lords.