HISTORIC PRESS RELEASE : Views Sought on the Supply of Scientists and Engineers – Sir Gareth Roberts’ Independent [June 2001]

The press release issued by HM Treasury on 21 June 2001.

Today saw the publication of a consultation paper seeking to encourage innovation and strengthen further the UK’s science base by enhancing the supply of highly skilled scientists and engineers. The consultation paper, which seeks views on the key issues affecting the supply of scientists and engineers, is the first stage of an independent review led by Sir Gareth Roberts.

The aim of this review is to ensure that businesses, universities and the public sector can recruit and retain the highly skilled scientists and engineers necessary to underpin their research activities, and thereby enhance the UK’s already strong reputation for scientific and technical expertise.

Publishing the consultation document, “Review of the supply of scientists and engineers”, Sir Gareth Roberts said today:

“The science base and its continued development is key to UK economic growth and productivity in the 21st century. The consultation paper provides those in business and education with an opportunity to help shape the Government’s science and engineering education policy for the future. I hope that as many people as possible contribute their suggestions and ideas to the review.”

The consultation paper reflects issues identified in preliminary discussions with representatives of the business and education sectors. Key areas it identifies include:

• the range of skills acquired by top scientists and engineers at degree level and above;
• how these skills correlate to the needs of business;
• how effectively innovative businesses communicate their needs to higher education, and how well the education system is able to respond; and
• student motivation and incentives at all levels, including secondary school, undergraduate, and postgraduate.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer announced the independent review in Budget 2001 as part of the Government’s productivity strategy. The announcement reflected the Government’s belief that a strong connection between the scientific and business communities (and, in particular, a good supply of highly skilled scientists and engineers) is vital for research and development and innovation, and therefore important for the future productivity of the UK economy.

The preferred deadline for responses to the consultation paper is 31 July, although responses received after this point will still be welcomed. The final report will be submitted to the Chancellor, Secretary of State for Trade & Industry and the Secretary of State for Education and Skills by February 2002 – in time for its recommendations to feed into the 2002 Spending Review.