Chair reacts to PM's 'new deal' speech
30 June 2020
Chair of the House of Commons Science and Technology Select Committee, Greg Clark MP, has responded to this morning's speech from Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
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
Image: Parliamentary copyright