Chair reacts to PM's 'new deal' speech

• Inquiry: A new UK research funding agency
• Science and Technology Committee

The speech included measures relating to science and innovation, including:

• the creation of a new science funding agency to back 'high-risk, high-reward projects';
• the ambition to make the UK a 'science superpower'; and
• the commitment to end the 'chasm' between intention and application, which can lead to a brain drain from UK soil.

Chair's comments

Chair of the Science and Technology Committee, Greg Clark MP, said:

"I welcome the prominence of science and innovation in today's speech from the Prime Minister. My Committee's ongoing work relating to the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated just how indispensable, and how world-leading, science, research and innovation are in the UK. Innovation across every scientific discipline will play a critical role in economic recovery, making its place at the centre of recovery plans more essential than ever.

“My Committee has already launched an inquiry on the Government's plans for a new science funding agency and we will hold oral hearings in the weeks ahead.”

Further information

• About Parliament: Select committees
• Visiting Parliament: Watch committees

Image: Parliamentary copyright