Mathematical Sciences Academy 2025-01-08
2025-01-08
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The Department of Science, Innovation and Technology underspent by nearly £600 million in the last financial year. A proposed national maths academy was planned to cost just £6 million.
People are disappointed by this cancellation. Can the Secretary of State explain whether he cancelled the academy because he does not value the role of our national academies, or because he does not think mathematical sciences are important?
I have just explained all of the ways we are helping, assisting, supporting and driving mathematical science. The hon. Member has just listed all of the ways his party has failed that sector by underspending in many parts of Government and failing to commit the spending to the project that he is now calling on this Government to support.
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Assessment & feedback
The cancellation of the national maths academy was not directly addressed. Instead, the answerer criticized the previous government's funding record.
Criticizing Previous Government
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The Government announced new funding for research and development in the recent Budget.
Does the Secretary of State agree that the recent announcement of new funding for research and development in the Budget gives the sector really good clarity about investment across the coming years and about the way forward that this Government wish to take?
I am grateful for my hon. Friend’s question. He is quite right to highlight that, finally, science and technology in this country has a Government on its side and putting their money where their mouth is.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific details were provided about the clarity of investment or future direction for R&D funding.
Broad Statement
Response accuracy