Written question asked by Baroness Northover (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Baroness Amos (Labour) on Friday, 18 November 2005.

Developing Countries: Scientists

Question: What steps they have taken in the training of scientists in or from developing countries, particularly in translational research, to ensure the retention of science graduates in their home countries.

Answer: DfID is committed to strengthening capacity at all levels in developing countries. We support training for students, including scientists, both in country and in the UK, though centrally supported research programmes and through the Commonwealth Fellowship and Scholarship programme.A tracking exercise of the Commonwealth programme established that well over 90 per cent. of graduates in fact return home. We have encouraged the Commonwealth programme to increase split-site courses. We have also encouraged it to increase the amount of distance learning scholarships that it provides, obviating the need for scholars to leave their country at all.

Secondary information