Engineering, science and the politics of EU research programmes

摘要

On 21 May I found myself on a train to Macclesfield with a bevy of other stakeholders from the world of science and research, includingthe science minister and businesssecretary, all head ing off to hear the prime minister give a speech on science and the Industrial Strategy atJodrellBank.A prime ministerial speech focused entirely on scienceis a sufficiently rare event to render the very fact that it is happening as significant as the words spoken. Happily, there was much to applaud. Firstly, I was delighted to hear the PM refer explicitly to engineers and innovation, alongside scientists and research. Secondly, the speech positioned science and engineering firmly at the heart of the Industrial Strategy, acknowledging the role of entrepreneurs and business in delivering the benefits associated with research.Thirdly, she set out a vision that was both ambitious and inclusive, stating: "Our challenge as a nation, and my determination as prime minister, is not just to lead the world in the fourth industrial revolution - but to ensure that every part of our country powers that success."