Britain should send astronauts into space, Science Minister Paul Drayson said yesterday, giving the strongest sign yet that the Government would soon drop its longstanding opposition to funding manned space flight. Lord Drayson said that British participation in missions to the moon and Mars would inspire a new generation with interest in science and engineering, as well as benefit businesses.
Space scientists at the University of Leicester have given a cautious welcome to the House of Commons Science and Technology Select Committee's report on UK activities - 2007: A Space Policy (HC66-1) - published today (17th July 2007). Leicester is one of the leading centres in the UK for Space Research and Education and played a significant role in the Select Committee's inquiry, providing written evidence and being among the select few groups asked in November 2006 to informally brief the committee before public evidence-gathering sessions began. In January of this year, the Select Committee also visited the University's Department of Physics and Astronomy and Space Research Centre before conducting one of only three evidence sessions held outside London at the National Space Centre.
The UK government needs to develop a more coherent strategy on space, or risk falling behind other countries, a House of Commons Committee has warned. But MPs did not support calls for the creation of a UK Space Agency. Many scientists say a space agency would give Britain more influence in determining international space policy.
Following the resignation of Lord Sainsbury on November 10, Malcolm Wicks has taken over as Minister for Science and Innovation. Lord Sainsbury has had responsibility for the Office of Science and Technology, Research Councils and space matters since 1998. The annual science budget has increased from £1.3 billion to £3.4 billion during his eight years in government. Between now and the summer of 2007, reporting to the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Secretaries of State for Trade and Industry and Education and Skills, he will carry out a review of science and innovation policies across government, focusing on their contribution to wealth creation and scientific policy-making.