October 1, 2008

scientists comment on the Wakeham Review of UK Physics

The long-awaited Wakeham Review of the state of UK physics is published this week, including overviews of the condition of physics funding, education, facilities and research.

Lord Martin Rees, President of the Royal Society, said:

“The RCUK physics review has highlighted the importance of the broader physical sciences for the competitiveness of the UK. The physical sciences are central to so many aspects of life from medicine to tackling climate change. Our universities are among the best in the world and we need to make sure that position is maintained with the necessary funding being in place and that our schools are providing the students who will be the science leaders of tomorrow.

“Recent Government funding for science has been positive and this review serves as a good reminder that to deliver on the potential of science the Government must maintain that support.

“This week the Royal society has launched two new funding schemes, the Royal Society Enterprise Fund and the Theo Murphy Blue Skies Award. These are focussed on applied science and blue skies science respectively and reflect the need to make sure that all areas of research are well funded. The Society is playing its part in that but further substantial investment must come from other sources.

“The Royal Society also welcomes the recognition of the need for independent advice to Government when deciding how the science budget will be spent.”