Royal Society Response To The Sainsbury Review, UK

Main Category: Public Health
Also Included In: Biology / Biochemistry
Article Date: 05 Oct 2007 - 8:00 PDT

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The Royal Society has broadly welcomed the findings of 'The Race to the Top', Lord Sainsbury's review of Government's science and innovation policies.

Martin Rees, President of the Royal Society said: "This comprehensive review of innovation is a timely reminder of the central role that science can play in our economy. It maps out ways in which the UK can make better use of the incredible natural resources we have in terms of scientific knowledge and skills.

"Too often in the past we have not fully capitalised on our advantages because of a fragmented approach to supporting innovation and complacency about the ongoing quality of our science. The report's recognition of the importance of coordination, support for the relevant players, strengthening education and international cooperation must now be backed up with the commitment and sustained financial support necessary to fulfil our potential."

The Society has welcomed the central role of the Technology Strategy Board outlined in the report. This will provide a focal point for pushing innovation up the political agenda. It is, however, essential that its role must be coordination rather than centralisation.

The review's emphasis on a broader view of innovation has also been welcomed by the Society. Regional Development Agencies provide expert local knowledge and contacts and must be encouraged to see their region's local expertise as part of the bigger, UK or global, picture in specific areas of innovation.

Recognition of the importance of successful innovation policies to the service sector is another important element of the report.

Martin Rees continued: "The importance of innovation in the service sector has long been overlooked, yet it is one of the UK economy's most vibrant sectors. The Royal Society has already started looking at how to best to capitalise on this and will be undertaking a review over the coming year. We will be keen to work with the Government to make sure that the full potential of this area is achieved."

The review also highlights the importance of education and international cooperation to the process of innovation.

Schools, colleges and universities are crucial to ensuring that the UK maintains a steady flow of high quality scientists and engineers. Without them innovation in the UK will collapse. The review highlights the importance of recruiting and retaining suitably qualified science and mathematics teachers - an area where government targets are not being met.

The Society is also pleased to see recognition of the need for greater promotion of UK science as an international collaborator. The recommendation for the establishment of a new international fellowship scheme and an alumni network will be progressed by the Royal Society and collaborating partners, subject to the required funding.

1. The Royal Society, the UK's national academy of science, celebrates its 350th anniversary in 2010. Its five anniversary goals are to:

- Invest in scientific excellence and encourage innovation and entrepreneurship to create tomorrow's leaders
- Influence public policy with the best scientific advice
- Invigorate science and mathematics education
- Increase access to the best science internationally
- Inspire an interest in the joy, wonder and excitement of scientific discovery
Royal Society