Responding to the government's announcement that £86 billion will be given to science and tech in the Spending Review, Vivienne Stern, Chief Executive of Universities UK said:
The government has made a smart investment in one of the UK’s greatest strengths. The UK has a real opportunity to sow the seeds of long term growth, benefiting all parts of the UK - with universities spread right across the country working with industry and public sector bodies to turn discoveries into economic success. They stand ready to double down with government, building stronger links with sectors of the economy where we have real room to grow.
This might feel remote, or that it only benefits the tech bros, but I've seen universities turning kit and equipment over to companies to help them fix problems, and be more productive; I've seen them spinning out new enterprises based on fundamental research, and investing in them to help them grow. This creates good jobs and attracts investment everywhere from Swansea to Aberdeen, from Barrow to Plymouth.
Universities will put their shoulder to the wheel behind the government's belief in the power of research and innovation.
Vivienne Stern MBE
Chief Executive of Universities UK