A new Government White Paper, "Excellence and opportunity: a science and innovation policy for the 21st century", promises an increased investment in scientific education and research.
The paper sets out policy in three main areas. The first concerns enhancing the excellence of the United Kingdom's science base. It includes plans to invest in improving science in schools, to build a world-class research infrastructure, to focus funding on excellence in research and to foster the most able researchers.
The second area concerns opportunities for innovation arising from scientific research. It includes plans for a new Foresight fund and to invest in building universities' potential to commercialise their research.
The third policy area concerns consumers' confidence in science and technology. The paper sets out plans for greater transparency, improved public dialogue and better communication
In a foreword to the White Paper, the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (Mr Stephen Byers) says that Britain must remain a world leader in science. He refers to the UK's "remarkable" track record in research: with 1 per cent of the world's population, the UK funds 4.5 per cent of the world's science and produces 8 per cent of the world's scientific papers.
The Royal Pharmaceutical Society has warmly welcomed the White Paper. Its chief scientist (Professor Tony Moffat) told The Journal that the new policy was good news for research councils and for universities because of the new money to be invested and because it showed that the Government recognised the excellence of the scientific community. Professor Moffat said that he was particularly pleased at the paper's recognition of the value of science to modern health care. For example, it acknowledged the importance of human genome information in producing new drugs that would provide an opportunity to improve both the health and the wealth of the nation.
"Excellence and opportunity: a science and innovation policy for the 21st century", Cm 4814, Stationery Office, price £11.60.

The White Paper promises improved investment in university research