The committee launched it's Under the Microscope initiative in December 2024, inviting people from across the UK, including schools, businesses, under-represented communities and expert groups, to suggest topics for future scrutiny. The survey sought to identify science and technology issues that matter most to people and ensure that these priorities are reflected in the committee’s work.
More than 300 responses were received from across, the country. Submissions came from contributors including schools, organisations and young people throughout the UK, from the Orkney Islands to London. This report showcases an overview of the responses received.
Suggestions covered a wide range of issues, but several clear themes emerged such as concerns about AI, health systems and STEM skills.
Submissions have already shaped the committee’s scrutiny, including its work on online harms and health innovation. The committee also invited several researchers who gave submissions to make pitches to the committee about their work, which led to its inquiry into low-energy computing.
Chair comment
Dame Chi Onwurah, Chair of the Science and Technology Committee, said:
“Science is for everyone, and policy decisions about science and technology impact us all. That’s why we launched the Under the Microscope initiative – to give people across the UK the chance to tell us what issues Parliament should be examining.
“I want to thank everyone who contributed to this. We received more than 300 submissions from across the country, covering an impressive range of topics and perspectives. These ideas have already helped to shape our work and our inquiries, and we’ll continue to draw on contributions to this as our work progresses throughout this Parliament.