October 9, 2007

scientists comment on announcement of Comprehensive Spending Review

The Government announced its programme of spending on science and health research over the next few years.

Professor Mark Walport, Director of the Wellcome Trust, said:

“I am pleased that the important recommendations proposed by both the Sainsbury and Cooksey Reviews have been accepted in full. The uplift to the single health research fund providing £1.7 billion by 2010-11 is good news. This should mean that the UK strength in basic biomedical sciences can continue to grow, while at the same time providing additional resources for translational research and innovation.”

Professor Sir Michael Rutter CBE FRS FBA FMedSci Vice President of the Academy of Medical Sciences, said:

“This substantial increase in funding will position the UK as a world leader in basic medical science and clinical research. It will support fundamental research into the major underlying questions of health and disease and, importantly, the translation of that research into benefits for patients.

“This funding will lead to a step change in UK research capacity – scientists must seize this opportunity with enthusiasm and vigour. It will create opportunities across the health research sector, not just in renewing efforts to tackle major killers such as cancer and heart disease, but in improving our understanding of how environmental and lifestyle factors influence health.

“However, funding alone is not enough. We must ensure that the UK retains a strong environment for research that fosters collaboration across scientific fields. This must include fully engaging the NHS in the research agenda, addressing regulatory problems as they arise and maintaining an active dialogue with patients and the public.

“The increase in funds sends a powerful message to the pharmaceutical industry that the UK is a world-class location for science. It demonstrates the UK’s commitment to supporting an excellent research base that ensures the best health care for patients and maximises opportunities for wealth generation.”

Dave Delpy, EPSRC Chief Executive, said:

“We welcome the Government’s continued commitment to research in science and engineering. The announcement means that EPSRC will receive more than £2.4 billion over the next three years as part of the Comprehensive Spending Review. Our plans for this allocation will respond to the changing environment in the UK and have innovation at their core. This support will encourage researchers to be bold and imaginative in developing their programmes when seeking support from EPSRC.”

Stephen Cox, Executive Secretary of the Royal Society, said:

“The government have put down a clear marker in support of science. They are determined to see science play a key role in the economy and in improving the general health and welfare of people in the UK and beyond. The UK already has a world leading position in research excellence. Today’s announcement will allow the current volume of research to be properly funded, the scientific infrastructure to be maintained and the UK to keep its leading position.”

Philip Greenish, Chief Executive of The Royal Academy of Engineering, said:

“Government has shown its commitment to addressing climate change with the Environmental Transformation Fund. Now we need the Government to commission an engineering-led inquiry into how to adapt to climate change as well as mitigating its effects. Only the engineering profession can provide the practical solutions we need to tackle climate change.”