Institute of Physics responds to the publication of the Government’s response to the Innovation, Universities, Science and Skills Committee’s Report into Science Budget Allocations

The Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS) has now responded to the Innovation, Universities, Science and Skills (IUSS) Select Committee’s Report into science budget allocations for 2008-11.

The Institute of Physics (IOP) has commented on the publication of the Government’s response to the Committee’s Report.

Peter Main, director of education and science at the IOP, said, “The Institute is pleased that the Government’s response recognises the need to nurture fundamental physics research in the UK for long-term economic and societal benefits.  We agree that driving up the economic impact of the research base does go hand in hand with supporting excellent science.

“We must ensure however that the drive towards economic impact does not damage the research base.  There is a commitment in the response to continuing consultation and holding off damaging cuts until the Wakeham Review has reported, which the Institute welcomes, but our own feedback from our members indicates that university departments are already suffering from cuts in some fundamental research initiatives.

“Attention still needs to be paid to ensure that no irreversible decisions are made until Wakeham reports.” (iop.org)