Background

Innovation will be one of the key drivers of our prosperity in years and decades to come, but it can also help us tackle emerging global challenges such as globalisation, an ageing population; climate change; rapid technological change, and global security.

The creation of DIUS in June this year is a real opportunity to widen and broaden our innovation policy. It is the first time that we have had a department that brings together skills and universities with science. It is the first time innovation has had a seat at Cabinet.

The department is already implementing the recommendations of Lord Sainsbury’s excellent Science and Innovation review and working towards the Science and Innovation Investment Framework 2004 – 2014.

Our intention is to build on this good work and to publish a Science and Innovation Strategy in the spring of 2008 that sets out a clear vision and direction for science and innovation policy.

The scope of the Science and Innovation Strategy will be wide ranging, but it will have a particular focus on:


We will also be looking at business innovation, international innovation, innovative consumers, innovative places, and the UK Intellectual Property framework. The strategy will also include a report on progress towards Lord Sainsbury’s recommendations.

Our intention is to develop a strategy that reflects the views gathered from a wide range of stakeholders, companies, employees and consumers.

PDF of the Minister for Science's letter (opens in a new window)