Science Advice in the UK

Abstract

This report examines the science advisory system in the UK, how it has changed and how it may develop further in the future. It looks at structure and functions within the UK Government (including the Government Chief Scientific Advisor, the Government Office for Science, government departments, scientific advisory committees - including SAGE - and the Science and Engineering Profession). It also describes science advice in the UK Parliament. The report looks at the role of public research funders, particularly UK Research and Innovation and its research councils, and it discusses how universities are responding to incentives to improve the supply of evidence and expertise. There are brief sections discussing the role of other actors (such as national academies, charities and industry) and discussion of some cross-cutting themes.

Preface: Improving Evidence Use In Public Policy

“…Indeed, in Preface | 17 most countries there will likely be sets of agencies and groups providing science and evidence to a variety of decision makers. In one mapping of the UK science advice system, for instance, Hopkins et al (2021) illustrate how science advice to Ministers comes from: formal science advisory mechanisms in government; independent academic councils and committees; government units specialising in research and evidence; and external groups as well. But while It is not possible to say which bureaucratic arrangements, or which system of representation, is the 'best' one, we can instead consider if bureaucratic and representation systems reflect good governance principles.…”