1994 Group response to the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement

12-12-2012 — /europawire.eu/ — 1994 Group response to the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement.

Alex Bols, Executive Director of the 1994 Group, said:

“The downgrade in growth forecasts set out by the Chancellor in his statement today are another blow to the country’s already fragile economy, making it more important than ever to invest in the research that will drive future innovation. The continued uncertainty over global trade demonstrates the risks of looking for short term fixes.

“That is why the Chancellor’s pledge to invest an extra £600million in science and research is such welcome news. The UK’s world class research intensive universities drive innovation, improve social well-being and deepen understanding about an ever changing world. But to keep pace with global competitors they need access to the very best resources and facilities. The money promised by the Chancellor today will help them do just that.

“We need to make sure that the money flows to where it can be most effective. This means investing in excellence wherever it is found, not just in the biggest institutions. Smaller research-intensive universities are among the UK’s most productive research centres and have the top departments for many subjects. We cannot afford to let them fall by the wayside.”

ENDS

Contact:
Mark Fuller
07952 286 223
mark.fuller@1994group.co.uk

1. The 1994 Group represents 12 leading smaller universities. It was founded to promote excellence in research and teaching. According to the most recent assessments, 88% of its members’ research is internationally recognised (RAE 2008) and 88% of its members’ students were satisfied with their university experiences (NSS 2012). In 2011, its members added £1.9bn to the UK economy, fulfilled over 1900 business contracts, and held stakes in 36 spin-out companies.

2. 7 of the top 30 universities in the Guardian University Guide 2013 are 1994 Group members; 7 of the top 30 universities in the Complete University Guide 2012 are 1994 Group members; 11 of the UK’s top-ranked research departments are in 1994 members, and all its members have a top-3 rated department for research excellence.

3. The 1994 Group represents Birkbeck, University of London; the University of East Anglia; the University of Essex; Goldsmiths, University of London; the Institute of Education, University of London; Royal Holloway, University of London; Lancaster University; the University of Leicester; Loughborough University; the University of Reading; the School of Oriental and African Studies, and the University of Sussex.