John Beddington, UK Chief Scientific Adviser
As the Government Chief Scientific Adviser, I sit at the interface of Government's engagement with its science advisers. I firmly believe that if Ministers and independent science advisers are to develop and sustain effective working relationships, their having respect for one another's roles and responsibilities is critical, and that this in turn should be underpinned by mutual trust.
This need for mutual trust is set out in the Government's recently published Principles of scientific advice to Government, and has drawn some comment.
Clearly, the extent to which mutual trust exists in any relationship is not easily quantifiable nor is it amenable to legalistic definition. I am convinced, however, of the need to recognise its importance. That trust is a key element of effective working in this area, and should be protected, is a view shared by departmental Chief Scientific Advisers across government, and importantly, by the Chairs of many Scientific Advisory Committees that provide expert and independent advice to government across the full spectrum of policy areas.
A critical point is that this trust works both ways and therein is
its value. By way of example, science advisers must trust that Ministers
and other decision makers will properly consider their advice, and
Ministers must trust that they will receive evidence-based advice of the
Government is clear that Chief Scientific
Advisers and Ministers with concerns about the application of the
Principles in their areas of responsibility, or of other relevant
guidance such as the Code of Practice for Scientific Advisory
Committees, should approach me directly.
Chairs of the
Scientific Advisory Committees should raise concerns with their
departmental CSA or myself. In this way, I can ensure not only that
independent challenge and advice is brought to bear on any issues of
concern, including perceived breaches of trust, but also that there is
an evidence-base to support any cited concern.
through a process of dialogue, I hope it may be possible to mediate
between parties to resolve issues of dispute.
discussing the context in which science advice is delivered to, and
received by, the Government, I am determined that we do not lose sight
of what is most important and what these Principles are about
protecting. Put simply, the need to ensure the provision of science and
engineering advice pivotal to the Government's developing robust
policies to deal effectively with major global challenges, and to
enhancing the UK's long term economic and social prosperity.