Royal Society responds to BIS allocations

The Department of Business Innovation and Skills has announced its financial allocations for 2015/16, which are broadly in line with the previous spending review announcement of a flat cash settlement for the science budget.

In response Paul Nurse, President of the Royal Society has said:

“The coalition government has consistently understood the value of investing in science and the long term benefits that brings, including to the economy.  There have been rumours of cuts relating to problems with his Department’s budget, so we are very pleased that Vince Cable has managed to find a way to maintain the science budget in support of the strong commitment to science of the Chancellor and the science minister, David Willetts.

In tough economic times we have seen relative protection for the science budget which is very welcome. However, other countries are investing more so we cannot be complacent.  With signs of economic recovery it must be hoped that the Chancellor will see the opportunity to further invest in knowledge, the seed corn for sustained future growth.”