The £400 million increase in Further Education funding is welcome, but nowhere near what is needed - IET
The IET responds to today's Spending Round.
In response to Chancellor Sajid Javid’s Spending Round, IET Head of Policy, Joanna Cox, states:
“Technology and digital innovation are key sectors that will help drive forward the UK’s industrial strategy, economic growth and the advancement of the world in which we live. We welcome the investment in digital infrastructure, super-fast broadband and mobile connectivity for the benefit of society.
“The £400 million increase in Further Education funding is welcome, but nowhere near what is needed. The Government has acknowledged the critical role of science and technology in securing a bright future for the UK, and the ongoing investment should include a focus on science, technology, engineering and maths. We need to help the engineering profession deliver this positive future and secure the next generation of engineers who will have the skills, insights and ingenuity to help tackle many of the challenges we face.
“The UK is a world leader in clean growth and this Spending Round provides additional funding to accelerate decarbonisation schemes, improve air quality and protect and enhance biodiversity. At least £250 million will also be provided to the international climate and environment funds, including the Green Climate Fund – the leading fund dedicated to helping meet the landmark Paris Agreement on climate change. Whilst we welcome both this investment and the upcoming review of the decarbonisation of infrastructure, we echo calls from the Committee on Climate Change for much more radical and urgent action.
“The IET has been active in supporting AI in healthcare and we welcome the announcement of £250 million for ground breaking new AI technologies.
“Further details on the Engineering Professions priorities for government spending can be found in the document Engineering Priorities for our future economy and society.”
