Lords Science and Technology Committee has first opportunity to quiz new Minister for Universities and Science
19 July 2010
David Willetts, the new Minister for Universities and Science, gave evidence on Tuesday 13 July to the House of Lords Science and Technology Select Committee in his first appearance before a parliamentary committee since taking office.
- Transcript of evidence session
- Webcast of evidence session
- Speech by Mr Willetts to the Royal Institution, 9 July 2010
The Committee questioned Mr Willetts on the Government’s view of the role of science and technology; long-term science funding, including the status of the 10-year framework and the ring fenced Science and Research budget; and the impact of reductions to departmental budgets on the UK’s research and development capability.
The session was not only Mr Willetts’ first appearance before a parliamentary committee since becoming Minister for Universities and Science: it was also the first to be chaired by the Science and Technology Committee’s new Chairman, Lord Krebs. The Committee includes other eminent scientific experts, including Lord Rees of Ludlow, President of the Royal Society, Lord Broers, former President of the Royal Academy of Engineering, and Lord Winston.