September 20, 2021

expert reaction to the appointment of George Freeman as the new science minister

Last week the government announced that the MP George Freeman will be taking over as Science Minister from MP Amanda Solloway. 

Prof Sarah Main, Executive Director, CaSE (Campaign for Science and Engineering), said:

On the appointment of George Freeman MP as the new Minister for Science, Research and Innovation:

“I’m delighted to welcome long-standing champion for R&D George Freeman into the role of Science Minister as the UK seeks to cement its place as a ‘science superpower’. He has significant experience of working in the biomedical and life science sectors and also as the Life Sciences Minister under the coalition government.

“The minister comes into the role at a pivotal time with the UK government promising to deliver significant increases to public investment in R&D in the upcoming Spending Review. UK science has been crucial in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and strengthening UK science, research and innovation is an essential part of increasing productivity and prosperity across the country.

“I am looking forward to working with him to draw up the long-term plans needed to ensure that the full benefit of increased investment in R&D is realised right across the UK.”

On the news that Amanda Solloway MP has left her role as Minister for Science, Research and Innovation:

“I would like to thank Amanda Solloway for her role in supporting the research sector through the difficulties and negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Amanda Solloway oversaw the publication of an R&D roadmap, promised by several ministers before her, setting out the policy challenges that need to be addressed to reach the government’s target of a more research-intensive UK. Importantly, she made strides addressing long-standing issues in the working life of scientists through the People and Culture strategy.

“With the government’s ambitions to become a ‘science superpower’, the science minister remains a critical role within government, and we look forward to the announcement of Ms Solloway’s replacement.”

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/ministerial-appointments-september-2021

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