Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Research Funding: Welsh Universities

Wednesday 18 January 2023 · 3 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 3 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Minister has regular discussions with Cabinet colleagues on research funding for universities in Wales.
  • Minister plans to visit every university in Wales and has met UKRI to express concern over lower grant funding.
  • Minister supports the Horizon programme and will advocate for Welsh universities to receive higher funding percentages.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Hywel Williams PC
Wales Science & Technology
Context

The question arises from discussions on research funding allocations to Welsh universities.

Question

What discussions have you had with Cabinet colleagues on research funding for Welsh universities?

Answer from David Davies

I have regular discussions with Cabinet colleagues on research funding for universities in Wales. We are committed to making the UK a science superpower, backed by nearly £39.8 billion, the largest ever research and development budget.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not specify any concrete outcomes or measures from these discussions regarding Welsh university funding.

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Q2 Hywel Williams PC
Education Scotland Science & Technology
Context

Concern over the lower percentage of grant funding received by Welsh universities and seeking practical measures to enhance this.

Question

The Secretary of State has seen that Welsh universities can deliver world-class research, but their funding is less than expected. What practical help can be given to increase research support in Wales?

Answer from David Davies

In terms of practical support, I want to visit every single university in Wales over the next few months. I have met UK Research and Innovation representatives to express my concern about the lower percentage of grant funding going to Welsh universities. An event at Tŷ Gwydr will be organised later this year with these institutions.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not provide specific details on practical measures beyond visits and meetings.

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Q3 Oliver Heald Con
Foreign Affairs Science & Technology
Context

Discussion about Britain's history of international collaboration, specifically regarding association with the European Commission's Horizon programme for science.

Question

Does my right hon. Friend agree that Britain has a proud history of international collaboration? Will he continue to push for UK association with the Horizon programme?

Answer from David Davies

I support the Horizon programme but will also make a case to UKRI if EU association is not possible, highlighting Welsh universities' potential for high-quality research and their entitlement to higher funding percentages.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not confirm any actions beyond making a case for Welsh universities without specifying the nature of such action.

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