In its “Autumn Statement” earlier this month, the UK government announced it will invest an additional £600 million ($967 million) in science over the next three years. The funds will support the Research Council and facilities for applied R&D. The government intends to increase the UK’s competitiveness and develop technologies in research areas such as synthetic biology, “big data” computing, energy storage and advanced materials. The additional funds build on recent investments, such as October’s announcement of £200 million for the UK Research Partnership Infrastructure, which will provide more than £1 billion for universities to develop and maintain research facilities and to establish partnerships with the private sector. Since reductions in the UK’s Spending Review 2010, its four-year budget, the government has reinvested £925 million in science and innovation. Higher education will receive a £270 million boost. Next year, the government will outline partnerships for sectors such as life sciences, oil and gas, and higher education.

Source: HM Treasury