Ian Gibson writes the script

Speechwriters went scurrying around taking soundings for the Prime Minister’s Oxford speech on science.

At the time of writing, it is rumoured he will do others on the subject matter of British science. Here is a text for him. It follows several meetings in Parliament involving scientifically orientated MPs and members of the Lords.

'The Prime Minister' speaks

‘Given the difficulties in the communication channels between advisers in government, backbenchers, the public and scientists on scientific issues, we need to set up a section, perhaps in the Cabinet Office, which tackles scientific problems. We need to put science much higher up the agenda in policy making – thus recognising the importance of its input into key policy areas, for example climate change, TB and all health issues.

We must stimulate our young minds who now are learning how to do science and facilitate school science teaching and research. They need to have a new career pathway very different from the classic undergraduate–postgraduate route, with various new skills being incorporated into the programme. There is no reason to assume everyone will end up doing science research and teaching. Some may use their scientific training to cast light on various other issues. Why not! Let’s do it. Their understanding of how to accumulate and assess evidence will be invaluable.

Despite the uncertainties of scientific explanations and the problems of risk analysis, it is reasonable to anticipate that scientific endeavour will give us the knowledge and experience to progress our lives. We should have learned from the problems of BSE, GMOs and MMR jabs how the media tackles the issues, how the public feels on media stories and how scientists stay aloof.

Elected minister

‘Since science is now so important in government policy determination, I intend to have an elected Minister of Science in the Commons and to centralise his or her team in the Cabinet office. It will be on top, not on tap.

We will undertake a major review of all departments and how they utilise scientific knowledge. Regional Development Agencies will have a 10-year science policy to fund renewable energies, bio fuels, sustainable homes and new industries and we will create more Science Cities.

We are prepared to talk to every company to see how they will play a part in these initiatives. Research and development will reach new heights in companies and they will get government support in ways to be negotiated, including tax incentives.

Policy priorities

‘The difficulties with the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) decisions and their role following hostilities from the pharmaceutical companies and patient groups will be reviewed. We will encourage basic research leading to personalised medicine which, with proper public consultation, will accommodate decisions.

A review will be set up to look at how industry and universities can increase their co-operation to induce research pathways leading to business creation.

At the same time we must not forget that research often turns up new phenomena, for example prions or mobile elements, following results which are difficult to interpret. This involves creating an atmosphere of scientific endeavour and sometimes reaching conclusions that may be unclear. Scientists must resist the urge to hype and be prepared to say ‘I don’t know’ to aggressive political writers in the media who usurp science for its political pay-offs. I intend to invite the media to a meeting with my science cabinet in order to prevent further biased reporting either way, for or against.

More innovations

‘To progress our strong scientific base, I intend to fund a new computer set-up to allow microanalysis of the environment to investigate the potential of climate change in greater detail. I also intend to develop diagnostic assessment of disease and vaccine development against AIDS, TB and various cancers. Our understanding of energy creation and radioactive waste disposal requires a strong scientific input and these are now political priorities. This will involve major investment and support for younger scientists and technologists. Finally, we will adopt proton therapy for treatment of cancers.

Scientists and politicians fail to understand each other and so we require a major revamp of our science infrastructure. A strong central organisation shall replace the Chief Scientific Advisor and be involved in policy determination in every department of government. No more patronisation of science! A role up front in outlining problems and making policy decisions is now the order of the day.

We are aware that scientists have much to offer. It’s time to invite them indoors to help create a successful economy, informed health service and an international role in making poverty history.’

The Prime Minister delivered his speech on science too late to be included in this issue.

Dr Ian Gibson is MP for Norwich North