Chris Calls For More Support To Turn UK Research Into Successful Businesses.
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Chris has called for a more joined-up approach across government to help turn cutting-edge research into thriving commercial ventures, following a new Public Accounts Committee (PAC) report ‘Commercialising UK Research: UK Research and Innovation’, released today.
The report identifies a number of systemic challenges holding back the UK’s ability to scale up its world-leading research, including a lack of data, skills shortages, and limited transparency in how public funding is allocated. It finds that UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), the UK’s largest public funder of research, does not yet have clearly defined objectives, modern IT systems, or consistent methods for tracking the commercial impact of its investments.
The PAC warns that without stronger coordination and a better understanding of where public money is going, the UK risks missing out on the potential economic benefits of homegrown innovation in fields such as engineering, biology, and quantum technology.
Commenting on the report, Chris said:
“This report highlights both the strength of the UK’s research base and the opportunity we have to better support its commercial success. Turning innovation into impact is not easy — but with greater clarity, coordination and transparency, we can improve how we nurture and scale promising ideas.
UKRI is central to delivering on our ambitions for research and innovation. There is already important work underway, and this report sets out constructive ways to build on that progress — from improving data systems, to strengthening skills, to developing a clearer picture of where investment is most needed.
In Scotland, our universities and research institutions are making cutting-edge contributions in fields like engineering, life sciences and quantum. With the right support, we can help turn more of these breakthroughs into businesses, jobs and growth — not just in our major cities, but across regions and communities.
This report is a reminder that success requires a whole-system approach. I hope the government and UKRI will take its recommendations seriously and continue working together to unlock the full potential of UK research.”
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