Science reshuffle dents sector trust in government

‘Downgrading’ ministerial roles leaves science in a vulnerable position, policy researchers argue

An apparent government decision to split the science and universities ministerial brief in two will “heighten concerns” and fuel existing “lack of trust” over its promises, sector advisors have warned in the wake of a dramatic cabinet reshuffle.

News that Chris Skidmore had been sacked from the role for a second time on 13 February was met with regret by a number of prominent voices in the higher education and research communities.