Liz Kendall is the UK government’s new science secretary, having previously served as work and pensions secretary since the Labour party came to power last year. She takes the place of Peter Kyle, who will now serve as business secretary following a cabinet reshuffle.
Kendall is the third permanent head of the government’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) since it was established in February 2023. She was appointed to the position as prime minister Keir Starmer made changes to his top team following the resignation of his deputy Angela Rayner, who admitted underpaying stamp duty on a property she bought earlier this year.
Kendall is joined by Ian Murray, who becomes a minister of state at DSIT after holding the post of Scottish Secretary. Former UK chief scientific adviser Patrick Vallance remains as a science minister, having been appointed to the position last year. Kendall takes over during an uncertain period for UK science, with budgets constrained amid a difficult financial climate.
Alicia Greated, executive director of the Campaign for Science and Engineering, welcomed Kendall’s appointment, noting that it is ‘critical to have research and innovation represented at the cabinet table’.
Greated also highlighted a small change to Jacqui Smith’s role as Minister of State for Skills. ‘It is also noteworthy that the skills brief is to be split out from education and moved to a new department under Pat McFadden as Secretary of State for Work and Pensions,’ she added. ‘It is important we get clarity on how the remit of this new department sits alongside those with existing interests relating to skills.’
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