---

Science in Higher Education

I am happy to follow that up in writing. We have certainly set out specific targets for the number of additional entrants for A-level qualifications that we wish to see by 2014. That will be a significant step change. I think that we can make progress on that target, and if we can achieve it we will see the numbers flowing through to universities. We also need to ensure that we continue with a supply of highly qualified school teachers and lecturers. That is of absolute importance. To incentivise and recruit a wider pool of excellent and good science teachers, we have increased the teacher training bursary and the ““golden hello”” payment for new science teachers. I made the point when I gave evidence to the Science and Technology Committee that the increased number of those who are going into teacher training to study science subjects and the increasing number of those who take that route with an upper second-class or first-class honours degree gives me confidence. Over time, we are seeing the quality increase. Finally, on research, the hon. Gentleman referred to the research funding base. We have just completed a consultation exercise on moving from the research assessment exercise to a metrics-based system. He talked about the cliff edge, and from the next RAE in 2008 we will replace the rating system with quality profiles that will give better recognition to pockets of excellence within otherwise good departments. That will go a long way to counter the cliff-edge effect of the award of a four rather than a five rating to one department. We have a strong record. We have invested significantly in our science and research base through our universities, but we all need to do much more to enthuse and inspire young people to take up the science subjects.