§ Dr. IddonTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps he has taken to enhance science in his Department since the publication of the Government's science strategy, Investing in Innovation. [162243]
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§ Mr. McNultyThe Department for Transport (DfT) has maintained its commitment to the use of science for policy making and delivery. DfTs expenditure on Science, Engineering and Technology remains at the levels indicated in the annual Office of Science and Technology publication "The Forward Look". This includes commissioned research expenditure of around £45 million per year.
In August 2003 Professor Frank Kelly joined the Department as Chief Scientific Adviser. He is focusing on ensuring that DfT scientific activities are well directed and policies are based on sound scientific advice. He also leads on developing a technology strategy for the Department.
In December 2003, the Department published an Evidence and Research Strategy, which aims to help achieve the goal of better evidence based policy-making by taking a strategic look at its future evidence needs. This will inform the planning and execution of the Department's research.
The Department has also created a web-based Research Management Database (RMD) which will make it easier for departmental staff as well as people outside the Department to access the results of the research funded by the DfT. The RMD can be accessed at http://www.rmd.dft.gov.uk.
DfT is continuing to implement the recommendations of the 2002 Cross Cutting Review of Science in Government, and Investing in Innovation. This includes ensuring that our research, and evidence and research expertise are managed effectively.
We support a Horizons responsive research programme, which supports innovative research on the challenges and opportunities DfT might face over the next decade and beyond. The programme invites proposals from external researchers via a series of individual calls.
Renewed emphasis is being put on maximising the use of Departmental Science to promote innovation within the public services and the economy at large. One of the avenues being explored is the opportunities for innovation through the freeing up of information eg real time traffic data.