15 October 2008
Million+ calls on the Government to reassess their research funding strategy in the face of global economic challenges.
In advance of a debate in Parliament on the allocation of university research funding, Pam Tatlow, Chief Executive of university think-tank Million+ said,
“The case to support research of international significance and blue skies research is undisputed but UK plc must also invest in research infrastructure in all universities. Universities which excel in excellent research of national significance will deliver the user-focused research and innovation which will revive manufacturing and support SMEs in new and emerging areas. The priorities that dictated the distribution of £1.4bn of research funding from 2002 are not the priorities which will minimise a recession or strengthen the UK economy over the next decade.”
ENDS
Notes to editors
- Chris Mullin MP (Labour – Sunderland North) has tabled an adjournment debate tonight on the allocation of University Research Funding in the House of Commons (Wed 15 October).
- In 2002 the Government prioritised university research of international significance. As a result just 19 of the UK’s 120 universities received 76% of the 1.4bn of the investment which the Government made available from the science and innovation budget. Universities which excelled in research of national significance have received no funding for research infrastructure since 2002.
- In December 2009, (DIUS) the Department of Innovation Universities and Skills will outline priorities for the allocation of £1.9bn of university research funding by the higher education funding councils. These priorities will determine the distribution of research funding to universities from 2009-2013.
- For more information please contact Gemma Tumelty, Public Affairs Officer on gemmatumelty@millionplus.ac.uk or call 07900 277819.