Committee announce new inquiry into astronomy and particle physics

1. the impact of reduced capital funding on UK capability;
2. the impact of withdrawal from international ground-based facilities (for example the Gemini Observatory and Isaac Newton Group of telescopes) on the UK’s research base and international reputation;
3. whether the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) has sufficiently engaged with its research community in these two areas on its strategic direction and impacts of budget reductions; and
4. opportunities for, and threats to, outreach and inspiring the next generation of astronomers and particle physicists.

Those submitting written submissions may wish to refer to the transcript of the evidence session held with Research Councils’ Chief Executives on 19 January, and the follow-up written evidence from the Research Councils on capital funding.

The Committee invites written submissions on these issues by Wednesday 16 February 2011.

Each submission should:
a) be no more than 3,000 words in length
b) be in Word format with as little use of colour or logos as possible
c) have numbered paragraphs
d) include a declaration of interests.

A copy of the submission should be sent by e-mail to scitechcom@parliament.uk and marked "Astronomy and particle physics".

An additional paper copy should be sent to:
The Clerk
Science and Technology Committee
House of Commons
7 Millbank
London SW1P 3JA