HC Deb 29 June 1999 vol 334 c90W
Mr. Dobbin

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how much the Government are investing in science; and if the information is publicly available. [89293]

Mr. Battle

My noble Friend Lord Sainsbury is today publishing the Forward Look of Government-funded Science, Engineering and Technology which sets out the Government's spending plans. We see science as a major priority and a key driver for wealth creation, employment and an improved quality of life both in this country and overseas. We will be investing over £20 billion in this area over the next three years—a real terms increase of £1.8 billion—representing a level of investment higher in real terms than at any time over this decade. Copies have been placed in the Libraries of the House.