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The House of Commons Science and Technology Select Committee has today published the STFC and Department for Business Innovation and Skills (BIS) responses to its Fourth Report of Session 2010-12: Astronomy and Particle Physics.

STFC welcomes the ongoing interest of the Committee in its work and its decision to look at the two important and inspiring disciplines of Astronomy and Particle Physics. STFC's overall responsibilities cover a wide portfolio in addition to these two research areas^*.

• Download the responses (link opens in a new window)

STFC has invested significant effort over the past four years in listening and responding to the concerns of our stakeholders and communities. We have introduced new and more effective methods of engagement with key stakeholders, including our research communities, Government and Parliament, the private sector and universities. The recognition of these efforts in the Committee's Report is welcomed.

STFC looks forward to building even stronger links and partnerships with universities, public engagement partners and the community as we deliver an exciting programme of work in the coming year and beyond.

^* In addition to supporting research into Astronomy and Particle Physics, STFC also:

• supports Nuclear Physics;
• operates and/or manages large neutron, photon and laser research facilities in the United Kingdom and overseas used by a wide variety of researchers from the physical, life and heritage sciences;
• provides extensive support for innovation activities and cross-disciplinary research efforts;
• has responsibility for the two National Science and Innovation Campuses;
• operates national research laboratories and other research infrastructure, and;
• provides, through funding support and direct efforts, a significant public engagement programme with a particular emphasis on improving the take-up by younger people of STEM subjects