Royal Society of Chemistry response to the 2024 UK Budget Statement
Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt has today outlined the UK Government's taxation and spending plans, in what is expected to be the last Budget statement before a General Election is held later this year.
Our policy and public affairs colleagues have been analysing what this may mean for the chemical sciences.
Tanya Sheridan, RSC Head of Policy and Evidence, said: "We welcome commitments to invest in life sciences and advanced manufacturing alongside support for science apprenticeships, including the laboratory technician apprenticeship.
"The chemical sciences workforce and knowledge are vital to these sectors. For chemistry and science to boost the economy and our quality of life, we need a stable policy environment that gives confidence in the UK for public and private investors, and attracts high-skilled workers, to locate their lives and businesses in the country.
"Increased investment and support for research and innovation must be felt across all regions and nations of the UK and we will look keenly at the details of proposed investment zones.
"It was disappointing not to hear plans for further investment in teachers and education. A skilled workforce is vital to growth in chemistry-related sectors such as the life sciences, so we must ensure that everyone has access to an engaging, relevant chemistry education. However, pupils in schools in the most deprived areas are less likely to have science teachers with qualifications relevant to the main science discipline they teach.
"It is vital that we nurture the talent needed for current and future generations to do the high skilled chemistry jobs in the green economy, health and many other sectors and to develop the digital capabilities needed.
"We want all students to be equipped with core chemistry knowledge and skills that are understood and valued by employers, via both academic and vocational options at level 3 and above.
"We also need the Government to support science, from discovery to applications, to effectively tackle climate change and ensure that chemicals, resources and waste, and environment policies are informed by the best evidence and most up-to-date science possible."
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