Thank you for contacting me about innovation, science and technology.
Innovation is vital to tackling the largest challenges the world faces, from climate change to global pandemics. I welcome the Prime Minister's decision to create a new Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. The new Secretary of State has been clear that her department will focus on how science, technology and innovation can be used to ensure the British people live longer, safer, healthier, happier lives. As part of this, she will lead the work which will send a clear signal around the world that Britain will lead the way.
The Science and Technology Framework, published in March 2023, sets out the Government's goals and vision through to 2030. The framework, which was developed in close collaboration with the UK science and technology sector, represents a commitment to scaling the UK's ambition and delivering the most critical actions needed to secure strategic advantage through science and technology. The framework is backed by over £370 million in new Government funding to boost infrastructure, investment and skills for the UK’s most exciting growing technologies, from quantum and supercomputing through to AI.
The framework sets out how the UK will identify critical technologies and domestic strengths. It also highlights how the UK can use procurement to drive innovation and seize international opportunities.
In the immediate term to help start delivering against the framework, the Government has announced £250 million funding for technology missions in AI, quantum and engineering biology. This is part of a commitment to the five key technologies found in the Science and Technology Framework, which also includes semiconductors and telecoms. Furthermore, a £50 million uplift will be provided for the UK Research and Innovation World Class Laboratory.
Delivery of the framework will be overseen by the National Science and Technology Council.
More broadly, I welcome the Government's work to foster the right conditions for industry innovation and world leading scientific research to deliver high-paid jobs of the future, grow the economy in cutting-edge industries, and improve people’s lives from better healthcare to security.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.