The Royal Academy of Engineering has joined with partners from across the research and business communities to call on the final two Conservative party leadership candidates to ensure the UK remains a world leader in research, development, and innovation (RDI).
The statement recognises the welcome support provided to the sector by the current administration, including a commitment to increase public research and development (R&D) spending to £22bn a year by 2026/27.
However, in order for the UK to remain globally competitive and able to tackle the greatest challenges of our time, it goes on to call for a pledge to increase overall R&D investment to 3% of GPD, supported by a strategic, long-term approach to funding, immigration and the tax system.
The statement also calls for continued close collaboration with the international research community, with an appeal to the next Prime Minister to secure Horizon Europe association as a priority.
Signatories include the national academies, charities, learned societies, universities and business.
Notes for Editors
The Royal Academy of Engineering is harnessing the power of engineering to build a sustainable society and an inclusive economy that works for everyone.
In collaboration with our Fellows and partners, we’re growing talent and developing skills for the future, driving innovation and building global partnerships, and influencing policy and engaging the public.
Together we’re working to tackle the greatest challenges of our age.
For media enquiries please contact: Chris Urquhart at the Royal Academy of Engineering Tel. +44 207 766 0725; email: [email protected]