Dr Diana Beech, Chief Executive Officer, London Higher said:
“There is much to welcome in the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement from the perspective of UK universities, not least the acknowledgement at the despatch box that we have “the best universities”. Commitments to unlocking potential in life sciences, technology, AI, healthcare, green energy and the creative industries will, together, enable our universities and higher education institutions to go further in attracting investment, meeting the nation’s skills needs and creating opportunities for key sectors of our economy.
We are particularly delighted to see the Chancellor unlocking the potential of London’s world-leading research and development sector and are grateful that Imperial College and Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust are being given funding to set up a Fleming Centre to inspire the next generation of world changing innovations. This is a great example of the Government’s trust in London and its higher education institutions for their specialisms in science, technology, creativity and healthcare.”
Mark Corbett, Head of Policy and Networks, London Higher said:
“The additional investment in high growth sectors, including digital technology, green industries and life sciences, will be vital for the UK to remain globally competitive. London is already recognised as global leader across these sectors in both research and as a global destination for study. As the leading city for foreign direct investment in Europe, the contribution of London’s universities will be at the vanguard of the UK’s ambition to be a global science superpower and kickstart growth and prosperity across the country.”
