Nancy Rothwell predicts challenges for the year ahead and makes a few wishes
Over recent weeks, it may have felt like there is little to celebrate in the UK, given the strikes, travel disruption, inflation—and if unlucky, like me, burst water pipes! But for those of us in research and innovation, the picture is definitely rosier.
The autumn statement delivered by chancellor Jeremy Hunt in November reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the large uplift in spending on research and innovation announced by prime minister Rishi Sunak when he was chancellor. Given the current fiscal climate, there had been concern that this would be reversed or delayed, and although it will be eroded by high inflation, it was very welcome. Also welcome was the chancellor’s clear recognition of the value of R&D.