Conservative manifesto promises windfall for R&D

Party wants ‘less red tape’ for scientists as it reiterates plans to double funding

The Conservative party has promised to “unleash our country’s full potential” via science and research if it wins the forthcoming general election, not least by reforming the research funding system “to cut the time wasted by scientists filling in forms”.

In its election manifesto, released on 24 November, the party also promises “science-led, evidence-based policy” and to improve the use of data in government. For example, in a U-turn on recent policy, the Conservatives will not support the controversial process of fracking to extract fossil fuels, “unless the science shows categorically that it can be done safely”.