Science funding - threat to business

There is a real threat to the level of funding from Government sources to scientific research. Whilst almost all aspects of spending are under the cosh and likely to have their supporters for special pleading, science is surely extra special. It underpins all technology advances, which are at the root of innovation and competitiveness, vital for UK plc; and it is the platform for resolving the major threats to health, climate etc. Take dementia, for example. Research into the causes of  what is now regarded as one of the greatest challenges to human health and happiness – and the economic aspects of care, is already woefully underfunded in comparison to other higher-profile medical research. Where does this go if overall basic research budgets are cut? We believe that there is a strong ethical, pragmatic and economic case for ring-fencing basic science investment for the good of all, business included.

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