“We have consistently had the funds allocated for these important projects,” he explained.
“I’m perplexed by the 30% budget cut in particle physics and astronomy. This raises questions about whether funds could have been reallocated at any stage,” suggesting a possible diversion of resources from one budget area to another.
Additionally, there are concerns that despite public claims of necessary cuts due to initial funding shortages, there was a strategic transfer of funds within the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC).
Minutes from the STFC Governing Council reveal that the head of strategy discussed a “notable shift in funding from curiosity-driven research to prioritized areas and targeted programs.”
In response, UKRI director Professor Sir Ian Chapman was asked whether there has been a shift from curiosity-driven research to applied research. “No, that is not UKRI’s position,” he stated firmly. “We are committed to protecting curiosity-driven research.” When questioned about the strategy head’s statement, Chapman dismissed it as a “false statement.”
Both Mr. Chapman and Science Minister Vallance have consistently asserted that curiosity-driven science is safeguarded and continues to thrive financially.
The Government maintains that there have been no cuts to STFC funding. The significant £38 billion investment in UKRI over the forthcoming years allocates £14.5 billion specifically for curiosity-driven research.
A spokesperson emphasized, “We stand firm in our commitment to investing in research that has the most substantial impact on the British public, as they rightfully expect.”
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Source: www.bbc.co.uk