New Brexit report asks government for swift action for agreement on research and innovation

Independent advocate for science and engineering, CaSE, has published a new Brexit report with policy requests from the science and engineering sector on people, funding and regulation, to mark the anniversary of the triggering of article 50.

“Science is a success story in our relationship with the EU. But Brexit uncertainty is beginning to bite,” explained CaSE executive director Dr Sarah Main. “In our comprehensive survey of the sector, research organisations report falls in application rates from EU nationals and candidates turning down prestigious research positions citing Brexit uncertainty as a key factor.

“Science is a significant and successful feature of the UK-EU relationship. It is critical that the government acts swiftly to secure the good will on both sides of the channel for an ambitious agreement on research and innovation. We want to see UK participation in EU research programmes, frictionless movement of science and engineering professionals, and harmonisation of regulation with the ability to influence.

“In addition, the government can take decisive action to unleash UK science and engineering potential. To do this, government should promote the UK as a global research and innovation hub with an international engagement strategy and a visa regime to match; transform recruitment and retention of science teachers; set a course to increase UK public investment in R&D to 0.7% of GDP by 2022; and prepare to lead the world in innovative, ethical regulation of rapidly evolving areas of science.

“These actions will send a signal that the UK is intent on remaining a global leader and partner of choice in science and innovation.”

Based on evidence gathered by CaSE on the impact of Brexit on research organisations since article 50 was triggered, a series of recommendations to the government was compiled:

1.Secure an ambitious agreement on research and innovation with the EU

• Reciprocal frictionless movement for science and engineering professionals
• Secure full UK participation in Framework Programme 9
• Prioritise stability and harmonisation of regulation in established areas
• Seek influence on regulation that impacts on UK science and engineering

2.Coordinate government efforts to unleash UK science and engineering potential

• Take radical action to deliver diversity in STEM
• Transform recruitment and retention of teachers
• Equip providers with sustainable resources to deliver high-quality STEM education
• Abolish the Tier 2 (General) cap
• Permit research activity overseas in Indefinite Leave to Remain rules
• Promote the UK as a place to learn, earn and contribute
• Create an immigration system that supports the retention, access and movement of those who lead, undertake and support research and innovation
• Assess and mitigate impact of likely EU funding changes
• Increase public investment in R&D to 0.7% of GDP by 2022
• Create a cross-government international research and innovation strategy
• Lead the world in regulation of emerging areas of science and innovation
• Access and use scientific and technical expertise and advice