The need for scientific research to underpin measures of quality of life

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has published the latest Government Expenditure on R&D (GovERD) statistics for 2024, which provide estimates of R&D performed in and funded by UK government departments and the devolved administrations.

CaSE have written to the Conservative Shadow Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, Julia Lopez MP, to express concern and ask for clarity surrounding their policy position that would see a reduction of UKRI funding by £2 billion per year.

This report explores how people in Scotland and Wales think and feel about R&D and politically salient issues ahead of the May 2026 Holyrood and Senedd elections.

UKRI has replied to CaSE’s letter asking for further clarity on some key areas following discourse surrounding their new funding model and the specific impact of some changes to the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC).