UK's New Science Minister:  Britain Must Maintain Its Investment in Science and Technology (October 13, 2008)

British Prime Minister Gordon Brown in his cabinet reshuffle on October 6 awarded Paul Drayson  the science portfolio.

According to NatureNews: "Drayson's appointment to the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills has already been welcomed by researchers - in part because of his superior science credentials. He holds a PhD in robotics, and made millions from the sale of Powderject, a company he co-founded, which developed a needle-free injection system.

"In an interview, Drayson told NatureNews that he would 'vigorously' defend the science budget against cuts in the face of pressure from the economic downturn." Although he "admits that research and development spending tends to be cut when budgets are tight, but he was firm that the UK must maintain its investment to come out of the downturn stronger than its competitors. 'Our future depends on a high-tech society. I will vigorously defend the science budget,' he says."

The new minister went on to say that that his background in applied research would not bias the direction of his brief [against basic research]. "Don't assume I will not support basic science. History has shown us that basic science has produced important innovations and discoveries and right now it is a very smart thing to ensure that it continues to."

And he added that One area of "unfinished business" he wants to focus on is the application of science in government. He wants to strengthen the network of science advisers in government to ensure a better use of science in policy-making.

More questionable is his championing of manned space exploration.