Oral question asked in the House of Lords, by Lord Jenkin of Roding (Conservative). It was answered on Wednesday, 22 December 2010.

Public Expenditure: Investment in Science

Question: My Lords, I welcome my noble friend’s response on the Haldane principle, the restatement of which is a welcome clarification. On capital spending, I applaud the continued investment in Diamond Light Source in Oxfordshire and the UK Centre for Medical Research and Innovation in London. They are hugely important projects. Mr Willetts’ statement refers to further decisions on capital projects of strategic importance. When can we expect those further decisions? They may be very important indeed.

Answer: I thank my noble friend for his support and encouragement. Of course, the Haldane principle, which is already established, is very important to us. On the announcements by my right honourable friend in another place, which he hopes and predicts he will be able to make, unfortunately I can say nothing about them at this stage. Like my noble friend, however, I hope that these investments will go ahead.

Secondary information