Astronomy and Space Science Funding 2026-07-01
2026-07-01
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Olly Glover raises concerns about funding cuts to the Science and Technology Facilities Council which could impact Harwell campus, home to £1 billion of world-leading research infrastructure.
What steps her Department is taking to maintain levels of funding for astronomy and space science. Despite increased R&D spending, the need for £162 million savings by 2030 imposed on STFC risks jobs and critical research equipment, undermining global science leadership. Does he share these concerns and what steps will be taken to protect scientific jobs and facilities?
Harwell campus hosts over £1 billion of world-leading research infrastructure. Concerns have been raised about the need for STFC savings by 2030. However, no final decisions on budget changes are being made and STFC's core funding is maintained. UKRI understands cost pressures but commits to protecting scientific jobs and facilities.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific £162 million savings target and potential impact on research equipment was not directly addressed.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Concerns about the need for £162 million of savings by 2030 imposed on STFC, which could impact Harwell campus.
What steps will he take to protect scientific jobs and facilities from the proposed budget cuts?
Funding for STFC has not been cut. UKRI will maintain STFC's core budget over the spending review period, understanding cost pressures from inflation and exchange rates.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific £162 million savings target was not directly addressed; only general commitments to maintaining funding were given.
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
Concerns about the impact of abolishing PPARC on particle physics and astronomy research.
Does the Minister agree that mission-driven research policy is a mistake given most practical applications come from fundamental blue-skies questions?
We disagree. £86 billion for R&D, including astronomy and space science, with £14.5 billion for curiosity-driven research because significant investment in science leads to stronger growth.
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Assessment & feedback
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Response accuracy