2025 Spring Statement: What does it mean for the chemical sciences?
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves MP today announced the Government's updated economic agenda in the Spring Statement.
The spending plans revealed in the House of Commons will impact every industry across the UK, including the chemical sciences. Our Parliamentary Affairs and Policy teams have analysed this afternoon's announcement and given their assessment on what it means for our sector.
Our teams will continue engaging with key stakeholders across the political spectrum to reiterate the importance of the chemical sciences. We are also committed to sharing any updates with our community wherever possible.
Royal Society of Chemistry response to Spring Statement:
Against a difficult economic backdrop, the Chancellor's Spring Statement focused on the need for economic growth. Chemistry has a key role to play in driving the UK economy forward, which means that the government needs to support chemistry education, invest in skills, research and innovation.
During her speech, Rachel Reeves repeatedly said that decisions being taken now have been made with the future in mind. It is more important than ever that the Chancellor makes investments in the areas with strong potential for growth, such as chemistry.
Our research shows the chemical sciences workforce has the potential to exceed the wider UK labour market jobs growth by 30%, underpinning several key growth sectors prioritised by government, including clean energy, the life sciences and advanced manufacturing.
We must also remember that, in order to achieve this jobs growth, investment in apprenticeships is also vital, while our Higher Education sector needs urgent support to get through the substantial financial challenges it is facing.
Without a strong university sector that is delivering the education, skills, research and innovation that growth sectors such as chemistry need, the Chancellor's plans to deliver a stronger economy will be impossible to achieve. It is crucial that the Government addresses this issue, including through the current Department for Education review on HE finances.
What are we calling for?
Our policy asks for the Government
We want the Government to place science and technology at the heart of the political agenda that will in turn create a resilient, sustainable economy and allow UK science to thrive. We have grouped our asks under R&D and innovation, education, sustainability and the circular economy – read more.
Press office
- Tel:
- +44 (0) 20 7440 3351
- Email:
- Send us an email