News from Council - October 2010

STFC Council met at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory on 28 October, and formally welcomed the Government's spending review decision to maintain investment in science at flat cash over the next four years despite the tough economic environment. Council in particular noted the effort by Ministers Cable and Willetts, and departmental officers, to make the case for science. Council noted the excellent work by the Executive over the summer in providing information for the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) supporting investment in STFC science and technology, and also commended the scientific community for their contribution to the positive outcome.

However, Council recognised the flat cash settlement would still provide significant challenges for all Research Councils, and that each Council had yet to receive its specific allocation. This was not expected until December. Council expressed serious concern about the potential impact of the 44% cut to BIS' capital allocation. STFC had a heavy reliance on capital to maintain operations at the major scientific research facilities it manages on behalf of the UK.

Council considered the latest advice from BIS on preparations for the final Delivery Plan, with the current expectation that final Plans from all Research Councils would be published before Christmas. Council accepted that the settlement reinforced the need for further reform and efficiencies, in STFC's operations, administration and processes. In addition, there was a particular need to increase STFC's engagement with business so as to increase the exploitation by industry of scientific and technological advances arising from STFC funded and supported research.

Science Board chairman Professor Tony Ryan reported on the Board's recent considerations of future, and current, funding priorities particularly in relation to prioritisations for the spending review period commencing in April 2011, including the role of STFC-supported technologies.

Professor James Stirling presented the report of the review of grants mechanisms he had chaired. After wide consultation with the research community, the review panel had recommended changes which would dramatically simplify the grants system, streamlining grants administration while maintaining financial stability for universities. Council commended Prof Stirling and the panel for their efforts, and broadly accepted the panel's recommendations subject to further consideration of implementation issues at the November meeting.

Council also discussed the report from the Working Group established to provide advice to the Chairman on the requirements for the next Chief Executive. Council agreed to publish a summary report (PDF - 35kB - link opens in a new window)and thanked the many individuals who provided input to the Working Group's deliberations.