Supporting Science and
Engineering in Government – the Government Office for Science sets
out the approach
Robust scientific
and engineering advice are heralded as the foundation of good
government underpinning economic success and social justice,
according to a new document published today. Science and
Engineering in Government, published by the Government
Office for Science, sets out the Government’s approach to the
management of such advice in the face of the great global
challenges of the 21 st century.
This document is published after the Government has confirmed
that every major science-using department now has a chief
scientific adviser (CSA). The Government Chief Scientific Adviser
(GCSA), Professor John Beddington, and the departmental Chief
Scientific Advisers provide a unique capability, working with
other analysts, to support the Government by ensuring that the
development of key policies is soundly based on the best available
evidence.
The document also outlines the GCSA’s role as Head of the Science
and Engineering Profession in Government. The Government Science
and Engineering community has been established to support robust
advice throughout all levels of government.
Government Chief Scientific Adviser Professor John Beddington
said:
“Climate change, demographic change and threats to food and water
security will require global action on an unprecedented scale.
Science and engineering will have a pivotal role to play in the
response to these challenges. It is a crucial part of my job to
ensure that the best scientific and engineering advice is brought
to bear on these and other issues across Government.
“I am delighted that every major science-using department now has
its own chief scientific adviser. This, together with the
community of government scientists and engineers that I am
developing will ensure that all levels of the policy making
process are supported by the best science and engineering.“
Notes to Editors
The document, Science and Engineering in Government: An
Overview of the Government’s Approach is available to
download from the GO Science website – http://www.dius.gov.uk/office_for_science
Departmental Chief Scientific Advisers have now been appointed at
the following government departments:
Departmental Chief Scientific Advisers
Communities and Local Government [Appointment pending]
Department for Business, Innovation & Skills Professor
Brian Collins
Department for Children, Schools and Families Carole Willis
Department for Culture, Media and Sport Anita Charlesworth
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Professor Bob Watson
Department for International Development Professor Chris Whitty
Department for Transport Professor Brian Collins
Department for Work and Pensions Dr Bill Gunnyeon
Department of Energy and Climate Change Professor David Mackay
Department of Health Professor Dame Sally Davies
Foreign & Commonwealth Office Professor David Clary
Forestry Commission Professor Peter Freer-Smith
Food Standards Agency Dr Andrew Wadge
Home Office Professor Paul Wiles
Ministry of Defence Professor Mark Welland
The Government Office for Science (GO-Science) is headed by the
Government Chief Scientific Adviser (GCSA), Professor John
Beddington. It exists to ensure that Government policy and
decision-making is underpinned by robust scientific evidence and
long-term thinking. Professor Beddington reports to the Prime
Minister and Cabinet and works with all Government departments. He
also heads the science and engineering profession in Government.
For more information, or to request an interview please contact
Adrian Bradley, Senior Press Officer, on 020 7215 5080
Department for Business, Innovation & Skills
The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) is
building a dynamic and competitive UK economy by: creating the
conditions for business success; promoting innovation, enterprise
and science; and giving everyone the skills and opportunities to
succeed. To achieve this it will foster world-class universities
and promote an open global economy. BIS - Investing in our future.
Contacts:
BIS Press Office
NDS.BIS@coi.gsi.gov.uk