Britain’s claim to be a science superpower is a “fantasy”.
The Society of Chemical Industry will publish its Manifesto for an Industrial Science and Innovation Strategy this week, warning ministers of an impending crash in science-based industrial investment.
It will say that on metrics of competitiveness, exports and government spending on research and development, Britain trails all its international peers.
Chief executive Sharon Todd warned the “UK is no longer a competitive or compelling place for industry to be located,” adding that Britain was close to hitting some 10-year investment cycle pinch points.
“It is not appreciated that we are in danger of dropping off a cliff,” she said.
