The UK government is set to announce an £86 billion package for the science and technology sector as part of Wednesday's Spending Review. This funding aims to boost research in areas like drug treatments and batteries, create jobs, and enhance national security. While welcomed, research backers warn that more long-term commitment is needed to maintain the UK's global scientific reputation.
Spending Review to include £86bn for science and tech
Rachel ReevesUK governmentUK government spending
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TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️The UK government is set to announce an £86 billion package for the science and technology sector as part of Wednesday's Spending Review. This funding aims to boost research in areas like drug treatments and batteries, create jobs, and enhance national security. While welcomed, research backers warn that more long-term commitment is needed to maintain the UK's global scientific reputation.
Trending- 1 Earlier this week (June 2-8, 2025): Rachel Reeves admitted not every government department would 'get everything they want'.
- 2 Wednesday (June 11, 2025): Spending Review to be set out.
- Potential for job creation and enhanced security
- Faster drug discovery in Liverpool
- Development of defence equipment in Northern Ireland
- Design of microchips in south Wales
- Potential hampering of ambitions due to visa costs for scientists, financial challenges at universities, and a budget not adjusted for inflation
- An 'ugly' spending review with ministers fighting over funds
What: UK government's Spending Review allocating £86 billion for the science and technology sector.
When: Ahead of Wednesday's Spending Review (implied June 11, 2025); package expected to be worth over £22.5 billion-a-year by 2029.
Where: United Kingdom, specifically Liverpool, Northern Ireland, south Wales, and Whitehall.
Why: To fund research into drug treatments and longer-lasting batteries, create jobs, boost security, and enhance the UK's reputation for science on the world stage.
How: Allocation of £86 billion, including up to £500m for regions with local leaders having a say on spending; Chancellor Rachel Reeves will set out departmental spending plans.