Committee raise questions about proposes changes to British Antartic Survey

                            Science and Technology Committee, Scrutiny, David Willetts MP, Minister for Universities and Science, NERC, British Antarctic Survey, National Oceanography Centre 
                        

In a letter published today (Thursday 25 October) Andrew Miller MP, Chair of the Science and Technology Committee, has written to the Chief Executive of the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) expressing concerns about proposals to merge the British Antarctic Survey and National Oceanography Centre.

A final decision on these proposals was expected in December, but yesterday NERC announced that this decision was being brought forward. The Chair has requested that NERC appear before the Committee next week in advance of this decision being made to answer questions about the proposals.

Commenting on the letter, Andrew Miller MP said

"The issues raised by the proposed merger of the British Antarctic Survey and National Oceanography Centre warrant a public hearing. I am concerned that the Science and Technology Committee should have the opportunity to scrutinise these proposals before a final decision is taken.

I have therefore requested that the Chief Executive of NERC comes to give evidence to the Committee at an evidence session next week.

I am very pleased that David Willetts, the Science Minister has also undertaken to speak to the Committee on the issue."

Wednesday 31 October 2012
Committee Room 5, Palace of Westminster

At 9.15 am

Rt Hon David Willetts MP, Minister for Universities and Science

At 9.45 am

Professor Ed Hill, Interim Director of British Antarctic Survey and Director of National Oceanography Centre
Edmund Wallis, Chairman of the NERC
Professor Duncan Wingham, Chief Executive of the NERC