Login
IET logo - link to site homepage
Start of main content

Delivering a UK science and technology strategy

Delivering a UK science and technology strategy: IET comments to the House of Lords Science and Technology Committee on 24 March 2022.

The IET has responded to an inquiry by the House of Lords Science and Technology Committee into delivering a UK science strategy.

The IET highlights that the UK has a very strong, competitive science base, however, it can improve its capabilities in technology and translation.

The research sector is a system of systems that are impacted by policies in a range of areas. A strong educational base and links with industry are crucial but we must also ensure that the UK works collaboratively on a global scale and learns from others who are strong in this area.

The UK is financially efficient within its science sector and this should be retained.

  • The government should focus on its technology strategy and in particular translating science into a product.
  • The strategy must think of the whole system, including education, local policies, and foreign affairs.
  • There should be simplification of the system and number of organisations involved in setting the strategy. Key challenges for the UK should be identified as part of a consortium of academia, business, and policy makers.
  • The government should support global companies to remain based and grow in the UK.
  • Policies should favour collaboration, international cooperation, and networking between researchers.