R&D sector’s election demands ‘unambitious’

Research ‘anxiously clinging’ to old pledges ahead of December vote, say analysts

As UK research lobbyists reveal their demands for the next government, several analysts have slated the sector for not being ambitious enough ahead of the 12 December general election.

Many high-profile organisations have recently urged politicians to take steps such as boosting R&D funding and ensuring easy immigration for scientists (see table). But many of these requests are attempts to protect existing rules or achieve past political pledges.