§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment she has made of the pilot survey due to be conducted in the first quarter of 2001–02 on university exploitation activities. [47349]
§ Ms HewittThe survey is encouraging and shows that the higher education sector is increasing exploitation activities, resulting in more spin-off companies and a higher proportion of research income from business. Creating stronger links between universities and businesses is an important part of improving our economic performance while maintaining excellence in higher education. The results of the survey are informing the Cross-Cutting Review of Science and Research which is being carried out as part of the Spending Review.