9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:55 Page 1

Public Engagement SCIENCE IN PARLIAMENT Medical Physics SET for BRITAIN National Measurement System

sip Whitsun 2011

The Journal of the Parliamentary and Scientific Committee www.scienceinparliament.org.uk 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:55 Page 2 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:55 Page 3

Very serious earth shaking events in Japan have created a global situation SCIENCE IN PARLIAMENT that is still running its course and which has the potential to cause the rest of the world to pause and reconsider the suitability of the nuclear option as a safe and reliable way of delivering low carbon base-load electric power to industrialised countries. This issue is currently high on the UK agenda as the existing fleet of nuclear power stations are nearing the end of their life. Nevertheless it demonstrates clearly the need for much better evaluation and management of risk and the importance of taking all relevant factors into account when governments are planning major infrastructure projects and especially nuclear power stations. Indeed, in view of the potential for global risk arising from the impact of sip nuclear disasters should not such projects be reviewed in future by experts from a wide range of relevant disciplines on an international rather than a The Journal of the Parliamentary and Scientific national basis? Andrew Miller MP Committee. Chairman, Parliamentary The Committee is an Associate Parliamentary On the other hand, when the EU was presented with a topic clearly requiring and Scientific Group of members of both Houses of EU-wide legislation, such as better regulation of pesticides used in agricultural Committee Parliament and British members of the production, the opportunity was taken under REACH to extend the remit way European Parliament, representatives of beyond its original purpose on the “precautionary principle”. The resultant scientific and technical institutions, industrial effect will be to drive small scale users of essential imported chemical organisations and universities. substances out of business. The risk of long term damage from measures of this type that fail to take account of the priorities of EU Member States that rely on industrial manufacturing would appear to be unacceptable. The potential benefits, if any, of such legislation to the EU economy and environment are difficult to assess. Is this just the result of a misunderstanding, misapplication and misuse of the assessment and management of risk? This issue also reports on two discussion meetings that are important to the UK both economically, such as the National Measurement System, and also from the human health standpoint where physics and engineering have Science in Parliament has two main objectives: created a new paradigm of medical physics, applying the fruits of basic 1. to inform the scientific and industrial physics research to clinical problems in a way that combines applied science, communities of activities within Parliament translational research and highly developed problem-solving skills. of a scientific nature and of the progress of SET for Britain, the poster competition initiated by Dr Eric Wharton, once relevant legislation; again brought early-stage researchers to Parliament to celebrate and 2. to keep Members of Parliament abreast of demonstrate the vital importance now placed on recognising, encouraging scientific affairs. and rewarding the next generation of outstanding scientists, technologists, engineers, mathematicians and medics from universities and research organisations based in the UK. On a more personal note I am particularly pleased to see the article by Steve Nicholson, Project Director, Mersey Gateway, and to learn that this badly needed and vital new communication link will come to pass in the not too distant future – and it is a really exciting bit of British engineering that will be a landmark for years to come. CONTENTS HOW THE EU CHEMICAL DIRECTIVE STRATEGICALLY IMPORTANT METALS 18 100 YEARS OF NUCLEAR PHYSICS 43 CREATED A DARK AGE IN EUROPE 2 Tony Hartwell and Louis Brimacombe John Roberts Opinion by Anthony Lipmann SHORTAGE OF RARE EARTHS 19 SHALE GAS 44 SCIENCE AND CITIZENSHIP 4 Professor David Walker Professor Mike Stephenson The Rt Hon the Lord Jenkin of Roding MEDICAL PHYSICS 20 THE MUSICAL BRAIN 45 DEVELOPMENTS IN THE Addresses to the P&SC by Dr Stephen Keevil, Dr Elllie Dommett STANDARDISATION OF OCEAN Professor Nick Stone, Dr Carl Rowbottom and TIME FOR ACTION ON E-WASTE 46 SALINITY 7 Dr Andy Simmons Dr Keith Baker Paul Ridout THE MERSEY GATEWAY BRIDGE HOUSE OF COMMONS SELECT THE INTELLIGENT COLLEGE – PROJECT 28 COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE AND STIMULATING THE STEM SKILLS Steve Nicholson TECHNOLOGY 47 SYSTEM 10 PROJECT SUNSHINE 30 Professor Sa’ad Medhat HOUSE OF COMMONS LIBRARY Professor Tony Ryan and Professor Peter Horton SCIENCE AND ENVIRONMENT SECTION WELDING IS FUN, EXCITING AND SET FOR BRITAIN 2011 32 49 REWARDING! 12 Eur Ing Chris Eady BOOK REVIEW 35 HOUSE OF LORDS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY SELECT COMMITTEE 51 HAS GOVERNMENT FORGOTTEN THE AN EVEN BIGGER BANG IN 2011 36 “E” AND “T” OF STEM EDUCATION? 14 CAN THE ECONOMY SURVIVE PARLIAMENTARY OFFICE OF SCIENCE Dr Tony Whitehead WITHOUT A NATIONAL MEASUREMENT AND TECHNOLOGY 52 WHY IS HOMEOPATHY SO SYSTEM? 38 SELECTED DEBATES 54 CONTROVERSIAL? 16 Addresses to the P&SC by Dr Brian S Bowsher, SCIENCE DIRECTORY 55 Dr Peter Fisher Dr Roger Digby and Dr Julian H Braybrook SCIENCE DIARY 64 LETTER TO THE EDITOR 17

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 1 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:55 Page 4

OPINION HOW THE EU CHEMICAL DIRECTIVE CREATED A DARK AGE IN EUROPE

At Rolls-Royce Plc in Derby, they are precision-casting the turbine blades for the Trent 1000, the lead engine for the Boeing Dreamliner. Developed by materials scientists at Rolls, the UK has maintained a lead in the technology to make high- pressure single crystal turbine blades for the past twenty-five years. Here a blade is grown through a ceramic core from complex molten alloy that comprises titanium, cobalt, tantalum, chrome, hafnium, molybdenum, tungsten, aluminium and rhenium on a base of Nickel. In a single disc-stage of a typical gas turbine, there are perhaps one hundred blades meant to withstand turbine inlet temperatures of up Anthony Lipmann to 1600° centigrade. It is said that the force driven by each blade into the disc is Former Chairman, Minor Metals Trade Association (2003-06) approximately 18 tonnes or, put another way, the centrifugal pressure on the tip of Managing Director, Lipmann Walton & Co Ltd each blade is equivalent to the weight of a double-decker bus.

Who would have thought 5/Environment/Article III-233 of materials and the need to then, that the rather simpler task the, as yet un-ratified, European ensure that the by-products of of supplying elements needed Constitution “Union policy on manufacturing do not pollute. to make these blades would the environment shall…be My case is that the EU Chemical now be a greater problem than based on the precautionary Directive does not achieve this. the material science? But as principle” the law that emerged By regulating elements, which governments around the globe did not limit itself to warding off were not in the original frame of wring their hands on the subject the threat posed to EU citizens reference, it duplicates and of strategic metals, and cast by pesticides but, with mission exceeds the perfectly workable about for solutions, there is a creep, came to encompass Dangerous Substances Act and danger that if this problem is not almost all substances – the practical guidelines analysed correctly the matter chemicals, alloys, compounds, established by the International could be made even worse. and pure elements. Maritime Organisation for transport of dangerous goods. As a dissident to the view With so wide a stroke of the Further, by pushing the metallic that strategic metal price rises EU biro, this clause had thrown by-products of manufacturing, are only to be blamed on away 2000 years of western such as turnings, off-cuts and Chinese export quota civilisation by curbing the natural residues, to be classified as restrictions, or fears that they are invention of man to experiment ‘waste’ rather than ‘metal for re- about to run out, I would offer with elements and substances. melting’, or ‘material for the suggestion that a far greater With this law, we have to ask, recycling’, the excessive zeal of threat to UK and EU would the single crystal turbine the law has caused the disposal manufacturing lies in the blade or a host of other modern of some toxic substances to unintended consequences of applications of minor metals landfill that would once have the EU Chemical Directive. ever have emerged at all? been safely recovered. With its origins in a UK Royal Before going further, though, Mooted as a law to protect Commission enquiry into I should like to make clear that (un-provably) the lives of pesticides, the EU Chemical the following article is not an 30,000 EU Citizens from direct Directive later emerged from anti-environment luddite contact with chemical Brussels as something altogether diatribe. In fact I see no conflict substances, the EU Chemical rather more far reaching. Taking between the demands of directive possibly now threatens as its starting point Section business for the free flow of raw

2 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:55 Page 5

the livelihoods of many more 30 or so Cobalt bearing alloys are present in the Airbus What applies to the two than that number through its substances – and both are still A380, where weight reduction is examples above also applies to unintended consequences. counting. paramount, increasing fuel Rolls Royce, but on an even efficiency. Due to new greater scale. Here, by their own In order to make the EU In practice the importer has formulations originated here, account, the world’s second Chemical Directive a bit more two choices – either share the which have increased the largest manufacturer of gas real to anyone not directly cost of testing as a member of a corrosion resistance in turbine engines does not affected by it, it is worth just consortia or pay later for a ‘letter magnesium-base alloys, the actually know precisely how running through the main of access’ to the information that prospect for wider use in many substances go into a points. Dubbed REACH, which a consortia has compiled. In the aerospace is very exciting. But typical engine – it could be as stands for ‘registration’, case of our small private now, with so much time spent many as 5000, and one way or ‘evaluation’ and ‘authorisation’ of company, we have decided to both securing rare earth metals another the EU wants to ‘chemicals’, the law requires a be part of a consortia for one of from China, and then regulate all of them. dossier to be created on every our critical elements, Rhenium, compliance with REACH, who in substance that passes across the for which we have budgeted Using the example of single their right mind would set up a borders of the EU. In practice, about £100,000, whereas for an crystal turbine blades, where manufacturing operation in the some chemicals contain element such as Titanium we Britain is a world leader, we may UK today, if you were not formulations so complex that will opt for a letter of access take the example of Rhenium, already here? they have had to be removed which will cost €40,000 if the one of the rarest elements entirely from the European projected annual quantity Another UK manufacturer (77th least abundant in the market. In the case of elements, imported is less than 1000 mt similarly affected is Less earth’s crust) and the last alloys and compounds, it has (It would be €60,000 if more Common Metals in Birkenhead. naturally occurring element to meant that once fierce rivals in than 1000 mt). For a private UK Here, the UK possesses the only be separated in 1925, which the marketplace have been merchanting company, founded European manufacturer of also happens to be un- ordered to come together for by my father in 1953, it all adds Neodymium-Boron-Iron substitutable in this application. registration in consortia, where up to quite a bill when permanent magnets (as Here we have an element knowledge, but not market translated across the 20 or so required by wind turbines) who that starts its life at 0.4 parts per information, must be shared. different substances we supply also, at present, depend upon billion in the earth’s crust, is Tests required by REACH on to customers during the year. China for their rare earths. To never mined for itself, and only each substance include those With a company net worth of free themselves of this recovered from certain types of for carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, about £2 million, we could dependency, LCM recently copper ores, where the flue and reprotoxicity (CMRs), easily spend all of that just on reversed into a Canadian entity dusts of by-product aquatic dispersal and many registration. called Great Western Minerals molybdenum are roasted. Its life more. The law also dictates that Group who in the future will be As a board member of The is precarious to begin with, but it old science submitted for a primary supplier of rare earth Minor Metals Trade Association is not toxic and it is the key dossiers is not valid, which in metal oxides. But where will the (MMTA), the organisation that element which gives the turbine practice means new tests (many conversion into metal take has been occupied since 1973 blade its resistance to on animals) conducted place? Ideally this would be in with the smooth running of the deformation, which in turn leads according to current EU best lab the UK next to the plant in trade in minor metals, I often to all the other outcomes practice. Birkenhead, but REACH dictates visit manufacturers round the desired by airlines and law that a full dossier will need to be Even simple elements such UK who are REACH-affected. makers – higher operating produced for each element and as Iron require a dossier. Three Last week, I visited two temperatures, fuel efficiency, compound within the rare earth years in, and very few consortia companies in the north-west longevity, lower emissions of complex. With only a handful of have completed their dossiers, bravely trying to make unique nitrous oxides to the upper companies to share the dossier, and some elements or world-leading products in the atmosphere. costs of relatively data-poor substances have been orphaned face of the twin towers of elements such as these could However, despite its tiny with not enough critical mass to Chinese rare earth quota stretch to many millions of production – the entire annual invest in compiling the data. On restrictions and REACH; two pounds. Meanwhile, China, world output of 45 mt would items with complex compounds ground-breaking UK which believes rare earths to be easily fit into a Parliamentary these dossiers may take up to manufacturers making products national treasure, bears none of Select Committee Room – the eight years to complete. The which, ironically enough, use these costs, and in a further EU Chemical directive dictates costs are astronomic. The minor metals in products which blow to European competitivity, that it could harm EU Citizens International Molybdenum promote environmentally is able to deliver freely articles and must therefore be Association has so far spent favourable outcomes. which may have been made controlled. US$5.5 million over 5 years and At Magnesium Elektron, in with such elements but with 11 substances, while the Cobalt The same procedure that Swinton, Manchester, their none of the REACH safeguards. Development Institute has spent applies to copper, whose annual unique patented magnesium €7 million for the testing of the world production is 15 million

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 3 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:55 Page 6

metric tons, is applied to maintenance and reparation of Thallium has a unique co- atoms you may ask? They will Rhenium with 45 mt. Three the steam-roller. efficient of diffraction and, today, most likely go to landfill. years into the process and we when doped in glass, is essential Over the last two years, we The problem for any still do not know how much the in fibre-optic repeaters to boost have moved towards business advocate of the exercise will eventually cost. The light signals. It is also used implementation, and industry removal of a piece of lawyers who run the consortia, entirely safely in digital camera has been swept into the environmental legislation is that according to EU rules, tell us that lenses and photocopier glass. process, dedicating vast current orthodoxy means it is once registered we shall recoup But Thallium comes from lead amounts of time and money to doomed to failure. However, as our cost from other importers and zinc ores and is refined out compliance. We have seen the EU Chemical Directive rolls who will have to purchase a as a by-product on the route to decisions about investment out, and the EU slowly becomes ‘letter of access’ to acquire the making pure 99.9% Lead and abandoned and plant, a clean room, Europe is also information we have created, Zinc. The problem for Thallium equipment and processes becoming cleaned of the price of which will be is that no consortia exists to hurried overseas to locations manufacturing and innovation. determined by the amount that register it under REACH. The where neither the laws nor the The hypocrisy is that we remain the consortia have already spent cost would simply be too great. controls are as great. content to import articles from divided by the numbers of those The puritanical zeal of the law, other parts of the world made requiring access. In practice, The great irony is that which effectively classifies under circumstances and though, the machinery of elements are not good or bad, elements not for their scientific conditions which are far inferior registration, evaluation and they are substances with and chemical properties but to those being implemented authorisation is a steam-roller sometimes conflicting properties because of their moral worth to under REACH. The net effect is with no reverse gear and we do and uses. One of the best the environment, is shutting out the export of both jobs and not expect funding to be examples is Thallium. Used as the production of Thallium in morals. It is truly a dark age we returned to us; which is more rat poison by the Victorians, a Europe for ever, as well as any are entering. likely to be gobbled up in the few milligrams is enough to kill prospect of its further use. What the human organism. And yet will happen to the Thallium SCIENCE AND CITIZENSHIP

When the British Council congratulated on mounting this House of Lords set up the invited me to open this event and I am delighted to see Science and Technology important international so many visitors here in the hall. Committee nearly 30 years ago, conference – an event intended and since then it has My task has been described to mark the tenth anniversary of established itself as an as “setting the scene”. Perhaps I the House of Lords Select authoritative and respected might start by briefly describing Committee on Science and body whose Reports are widely how the House of Lords Select Technology’s Report “Science studied and in many cases Committee on Science and and Society” – I did not at first acted upon. Technology works, how the realise the full implications of subject of our Report came to The House of Lords is The Rt Hon the Lord Jenkin of what I would be taking on. The be chosen, and how I – fortunate in having among its Roding presence here today of so many someone who never did any Members scientists and delegates from countries outside science at all at school or engineers of great distinction, as Opening speech at Science the United Kingdom brings it university – came to be invited well as Peers who are expert in and Citizenship conference home to everyone just how to chair it. other branches of learning and held by the British Council at important across the world it of course people who have held the Wellcome Collection has become to find ways to Over recent years both high office in previous Conference centre on 14th engage the public with science. Houses of Parliament in the UK governments. When selecting and 15th December 2010 to Indeed, though I and my have found that one of the most Members to sit on the Science mark the Tenth Anniversary of colleagues hoped that our effective ways to hold Ministers and Technology Committee, the the “Science and Society” Report might be useful, I to account, and to explore policy House has a rich store of Report of the House of Lords certainly did not begin to realise issues more deeply than can be experience and expertise on Select Committee on Science that its influence would reach done in debates on the Floor of which to draw. The Select and Technology. across the world. I believe the the House, was to establish Committee is free to choose its British Council is to be warmly specialist Select Committees; the

4 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:55 Page 7

own programme of inquiries growing perception that this was I have said I was no scientist but evidence. My friends, here is the and this takes full account of not succeeding in bridging the I had held Office in the Cabinets published document! It is still in current issues and gulf between the world of of two successive Conservative print and available from the developments in science and science and technology on the Governments and had a good Stationery Office – all 426 pages technology both in the UK and one hand and the mass of the deal of experience as to how of it! abroad. people on the other. So when at government worked. Based on that evidence, we one of the Committee meetings Having chosen a subject, the Our first task was to appoint invited a long list of witnesses to I attended we were asked to inquiry then issues a call for Special Advisors. In an earlier give us oral evidence, when we suggest possible topics for future evidence and this is then inquiry, about the handling of could examine them in more inquiries, tentatively – because I responded to by written nuclear waste in which I had detail, and between May and was a relatively new Member of evidence from the professions, taken part, I had been hugely December 1999 many dozens the Committee – I suggested academia, public bodies, impressed by an academic from of witnesses of widely different that we might look at the whole industry, and interested non- Lancaster University, Professor opinions and expertise were question of the gulf between government organisations. The Brian Wynne, who had offered examined. This oral testimony is science and the public. Committee then identifies some us much wisdom about how to included in the volume. of these who will be asked to We had recently had some approach the public on such But that was not all. I and a give oral evidence to the quite serious scientific crises matters. So he was my first few others visited the US in Committee where they may be including a highly damaging choice and I might add that it is October 1999. There our questioned by Members. The outbreak of foot and mouth sad that he is unable through programme included meetings Committee may invite evidence disease; there had been the illness to take part with us today. with the White House Office of from overseas and, in alarm surrounding the new Our second Advisor was your Science and Technology Policy, appropriate inquiries, will travel version of Kreutzfeld/Jacob next speaker, Professor John the National Academy of overseas to find out if we can disease, there was growing Durant, then a professor of the Sciences, The National Institutes learn from the experience of controversy over genetically Public Understanding of Science of Health, the National Science other countries. modified foods; and a great deal and a distinguished academic at Foundation, the Boston Museum of misunderstanding about the Imperial College London. After a Report is published, of Science, and the Kennedy drivers of climate change. there are two more stages. First, After taking advice from these School of Government at the Government has to reply to You may be surprised to Advisors and from the Harvard University. These and the Report in not less than two learn that I was rebuffed! Several Committee staff, we issued our other meetings in America had a months. Then there is a debate of the very distinguished call for evidence in April 1999. considerable influence on our on the floor of the House in scientists who had been This set out the questions that recommendations; it was clear which any Peer is free to take involved in the “public we wished to examine, the first that in the United States they part – and it is not unusual to understanding of science” loftily of which was “What is known faced many of the problems listen to views which may either told me that this was already in about the attitudes in UK society which we did. contradict the recommendations hand and did not need another towards developments in After we had completed our in the Report, or, more often, inquiry. So I subsided! science? What is known about hearings and studied the which roundly criticise the the levels of trust in scientists? However, the subject did not evidence, the Committee then inadequacy of the Government’s Are some groups of scientists go away. The issues became held a series of drafting response! trusted more than others and, if ever more significant, and so meetings. so, why?” And there were a I have no doubt that late one evening I was number of questions elaborating The first draft was provided legislatures in other democratic approached by the then on that central theme. We made by our very able Clerk to the countries could point to similar Chairman, Lord Winston, who it clear we were not concerned Committee – but, my friends, procedures. invited me to chair an inquiry on about the education and training that was only a first draft! With “Science and the Public”. Of Mr Chairman, that is how we of specialist scientists, nor were the advice of our Special course I accepted. We then had work and that is exactly how the we seeking to encourage more Advisors and with the wisdom of a meeting of the Committee inquiry “Science and Society” people to follow science careers. our really eminent scientists on where this was proposed, but worked ten years ago. Important as these subjects are, the Committee, we went one of the young advisors to the they were already under through the draft paragraph by So how did we come to Committee suggested that, examination elsewhere. paragraph and made numerous choose this subject? In the UK instead of “Science and the improvements and alterations. there had been for several Public” perhaps “Science and I was astonished by both the Indeed, for some sections we decades an activity which was Society” would have a better volume and the erudition of the produced entirely new drafts called “the public understanding ring about it – and it was so huge mass of written evidence of science”. Despite the best decided. We then got to work. we received. We had certainly Eventually we finalised our efforts of many able and found a topic of very wide draft and it went to the printers Why was I invited to chair it? committed people in science concern. It is the practice of and was published on February For that you must ask others; as and engineering, there was a these Committees to publish the 23rd 2000. We made twenty-six

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 5 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:55 Page 8

recommendations lettered, We went on to say that all and evaluate what has ethical issues surrounding conveniently, A-Z. These are all this requires genuine changes in happened since then. One synthetic biology. Their Report, set out in the Summary at the the cultures and constitutions of shortcoming in our Report of 90 pages long, is a really front of the Report and I will not key decision-making institutions. which I was quickly made aware fascinating document and is well weary you by reading them all Public support for science is is that while we described a worth reading; in the few out. I can give what I hope is a essential if progress is to be large number of different minutes I have left I cannot useful summary. made. The concept that mechanisms and processes by possibly do justice to it. One key scientists have a licence to which scientists interact with the finding is that it is simply not Turning first to public practise from the public has to public, we did not succeed in possible to ask the lay public for attitudes, we recognised that be clearly recognised. defining what we really meant their views on the moral and people now question all by “engagement”. As a result, ethical implications, unless they authority including scientific We also had recommen- many scientists have found it understand enough about the authority; the age of deference dations about science and the very difficult to know what it is science to know what it is that is long past! People place more media, about science education that they might actually do to they are being asked about. I trust in science which is seen as and schools and time does not “engage” with the public. am told that much of the time “independent”; secrecy invites allow me to outline them here and effort that went into this suspicion; what seem to be today; they are there for the Another problem, at least exercise was spent on doing just scientific issues in fact involve reading in the Report. until recently, is that the that, before exploring attitudes moral, social, ethical and other communication of science has And what was the outcome? and reactions. This clearly concerns and, if these are not tended to rank well below For about a year, there was little means that instant polling via recognised, that invites hostility. research as a worthy activity of response. The reason for this Facebook or Twitter or any of There is a widespread someone pursuing a career in was that the Report was the other social websites is not misunderstanding of risk; and it science. thorough, detailed, and complex only meaningless, but could well has to be recognised that and the recommendations had I come finally to my last point be really misleading. underlying people’s attitudes are many far reaching implications. – it concerns the relatively new the values which they espouse. For me, this very recent Eventually, however, the field of Synthetic Biology. report has an additional So, our central recommen- messages were taken on board. When the distinguished attraction: it revisits a great many dation was that the crisis of trust What had hitherto been the American molecular biologist of the concepts and issues which I have described has one-way process of the public and entrepreneur, Craig Venter, which were at the heart of the produced what we called “a understanding of science claimed earlier this year to have “Science and Society” Report 10 new mood for dialogue”. It is not gradually gave way to public created the world’s first synthetic years ago. It asks many of the only public understanding that is engagement. One by one all the life form, and said that this same questions that we were important, scientists must principal UK scientific and success “has changed his view asking then. understand the impact of engineering bodies established of life and of how life works”, his science on society and on public their “science and society One distinguished scientist discovery was greeted in the opinion. committees” (though they were said to me that our Report was Times here in London with the often under different names). perhaps the most influential We also recognised that headline, quoting an eminent House of Lords Select scientists must be free to pursue After a further delay, the UK scientist, “Synthetic life? Committee Report over the the lines of research they Government recognised that Synthetic hysteria more like!” previous decade. I have never choose, and we discussed how they too had to respond to the Yet, of course, the science of written an autobiography and I and when the public should be Report, not just formally which synthetic biology (or synthetic do not intend to do so. But I made aware of their work. Governments have to do, but by engineering as it is sometime have sometimes said to my picking up those So, I come to our principal called) has immense friends that if I ever merit a recommendations made to recommendation. Instead of potentialities as well as some footnote in history, it might be Government and acting on seeking “the public intense moral, ethical and social for our “Science and Society” them. There is now a fully understanding of science”, which implications – and it is not going Report. fledged Science in Society we were told very firmly was to go away! activity within Government and one-way, top-down, condes- Ministers in successive Two of the leading Research cending, even demeaning, we Governments have urged all the Councils in the UK launched recommended a culture of departments and bodies for what they called a “Synthetic public engagement, and that, which they are responsible to Biology Dialogue” – have we my friends, is what lies at the take full account of the not heard that word a few heart of our Report. Engagement Committee’s recommendations. moments ago? – involving a must be a two-way process, series of public workshops and and, as one of our American It must of course be for stakeholder interviews on the witnesses put it eloquently, it those who are to follow me science and the moral and requires “ears as well as voices”. today and tomorrow to describe

6 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:55 Page 9

DEVELOPMENTS IN THE STANDARDISATION OF OCEAN SALINITY

Pacific, Indonesian Seas and in precipitation (Bergman, 1784). It Towards the end of the 19th upwelling zones salinity is also was Forchhammer (1865) who century the Danish physicist and believed to be important." introduced the term salinity and hydrographer Martin Knudsen the concept of measuring one prepared sealed glass tubes of Salinity is important in other parameter, chloride (in reality seawater to standardise the aspects of marine science. total halide), from which the silver nitrate solutions used in SONAR (sound navigation and salinity could be calculated. This Danish hydrographic work. In ranging) is influenced by water work was supported further by 1899 when a preparatory density and hence the salinity of Dittmar (1884) who analysed conference took place in the seawater in applications over 75 samples from the Stockholm to establish the Paul Ridout such as seabed mapping, Challenger Expedition (1872- International Council for the Chairman, Ocean Scientific submarine detection and International Ltd 1876) to establish the theory of Exploration of the Seas (ICES), bathymetry. Salinity has a ‘Constant Composition of Knudsen submitted a proposal The salt content or salinity of considerable influence as an Seawater’. Further work by for an international institution for the oceans is one of the most ecological factor on marine Knudsen et al (1902) resulted the procurement of standard measured parameters in organisms, affecting algal in a new definition which stated water (Conference oceanography. Its importance blooms, movement of fish that Salinity was "The total Internationale, 1899). Key has long been recognised in stocks, shellfish productivity and amount of solid material in features of his proposal were studies of water mass aquaculture. grams contained in one the collection of open Atlantic movements in the open ocean. Early work in measuring the kilogram of seawater when all of seawater, detailed determination Improving knowledge of sea saltiness of the sea involved the carbonate has been of the total salinity and testing of surface salinity is leading to a techniques utilising weighing converted to oxide, all the sealed glass tubes for better estimation of the global after evaporation (Boyle,1693; bromine and iodine replaced by maintaining the integrity of the hydrological cycle which, see Birch, 1965), solvent chlorine and all the organic standard. The Norwegian ultimately, will contribute extraction (Lavoisier, 1772) and material oxidised". explorer, Fridtjof Nansen towards a better understanding of climate change.

As a result of global warming, increased amounts of fresh water are being evaporated from the ocean surface and transported to higher latitudes, giving rise to increased surface salinities in some areas of the oceans. The Ocean Observations Panel for Climate, OOPC, and its predecessors examined the usefulness of sea surface salinity data in the context of climate change detection. They state that "At high latitude, sea surface salinity is known to be critical for decadal and longer time scale variations associated with deep- ocean over turning and the hydrological cycle. In the tropics and, in particular, the western Fig 1 Sea surface annual salinity (Antonov et al, 2006)

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 7 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:55 Page 10

proposed to the Conference that expanded around the world. concentration of KCl was derived February 2011. There were a Central Laboratory be set up in Scaling up of the seawater from measurements carried out some concerns in 1989 with connection with ICES for the collection, processing and on one batch of Standard regard to the long-term stability supply of standard seawater. In calibration was necessary to Seawater, weight diluted and of a commercial operation but in April 1900 about 80 tubes of meet the demand which evaporated (Lewis,1980; see effect the Service has never ‘Standard Water No VI’ and peaked at around 30,000 Unesco Technical Papers No 37, been more secure with now, 22 random samples were ampoules of standard per 1981). Also included were years on, 3 analysts trained in investigated for chlorinity and annum. Hermann retired in measurements of absolute the calibration and the specific gravity by the Danish 1974 and responsibility for the conductivity carried out at the methodology fully documented chemist, Sørensen. When Service passed to Fred Culkin, a Institute of Oceanographic under an ISO9001:2008 quality Nansen relinquished this UK marine chemist who had Sciences, Wormley, UK (Culkin system. In 2000, following responsibility in 1908, Knudsen collaborated with him on and Smith, 1980). almost a decade of testing, the agreed to direct the Standard chlorinity titrations for several traditional glass ampoule was Seawater Service on behalf of years. With support from IAPSO replaced by a pharmaceutical the Council and then in 1914 (formerly AIOP) all the grade glass bottle which offered he assumed personal equipment, which included a an improved shelf-life (to 3 responsibility for its operation. 5000 litre tank, circulation years) and a more robust pumps, filling manifold and container which required less stocks of ampoules were packaging and was easier to transferred to the Institute of use. Oceanographic Sciences (IOS) OSIL has continued to in Wormley, Surrey, UK. Much of publish the results of ageing on the knowledge and analytical the batches of P-series (Culkin techniques involved in the Fig 3: Fred Culkin and Paul Ridout and Ridout, 1997) and the production of this important at OSIL. statistical uncertainty of the standard had been transferred calibration (Bacon et al 2007) via word of mouth and This gave rise to the and continues to archive handwritten notes so when introduction of the Practical samples from each batch. This Hermann died a year or so later Salinity Scale 1978 (PSS78) and archive contains seawater Fred Culkin essentially was the the term Practical Salinity. collected from the Atlantic only person who had the With the change in definition Ocean since 1901. knowledge to produce Standard to Practical Salinity in 1978 Seawater. By way of mitigation came the need to determine Standard Seawater is and to ease the workload, IOS the calibration of Standard identified by a batch number employed Paul Ridout to Seawater in conductivity ratio. with the prefix ‘P’. This originates understudy Fred Culkin and take This was achieved using high from Knudsen’s early work Fig 2 An ampoule of Standard over the day-to-day operation of precision weighings of KCl and when in 1905 a new Primary Seawater from 1902 (© P Ridout) the service with Culkin measurement of conductivity Standard was established by In 1947, at the age of 76, remaining as its director. At that ratio on a modified laboratory direct comparison with Knudsen Knudsen suggested that the time Standard Seawater was still salinometer (Guildline Autosal). water VI. In the following two Association Internationale calibrated using a high precision For a while the standard years, four more batches (P1- d’Oceanographie Physique potentiometric titration of the seawater label showed both P4) were prepared. In the early (AIOP) take over responsibility seawater total halide with silver conductivity ratio (K15) and years the demand was for the Service in order to secure nitrate solution to give Chlorinity. chlorinity until Batch P113 somewhat limited with Batch P17 being produced in 1948. its future. His foresight was In 1978 the break with (1990) when chlorinity was The Service operated by OSIL appreciated soon after when chlorinity was sealed with the discontinued and replaced with has now reached Batch P153 Knudsen died and, at the introduction of a new the calculated value for Practical and supplies the standards to request of AIOP, Helge Thomsen conductivity-based definition of Salinity. In 1989 the Service was marine scientists in over 75 took over administrative salinity by the Joint Panel on transferred, for the first time in countries. Seawater chemist, responsibility with Knudsen’s Oceanographic Tables and its history, to a private company, Nigel Higgs, carries out the day- assistant, Frede Hermann, Standards (JPOTS). This new Ocean Scientific International Ltd to-day preparation and preparing and calibrating the definition states that ‘a seawater (OSIL) and the company’s calibration of the standards with standards. When Thomsen of salinity 35 has a conductivity founder, Paul Ridout, took over Paul Ridout as the Service retired in 1960 Hermann took ratio of unity with a solution of as Director of the IAPSO Director. (More information is over full responsibility and the 32.4356 grams of Potassium Standard Seawater Service. Fred available at www.osil.co.uk). requirement for standards Chloride in 1 kilogram of Culkin retired from IOS but increased dramatically as solution at 15 C and 1 continued in a consultancy role Some countries (eg Japan, oceanographic science atmosphere’. The standard with OSIL until his death in Russia, China) have produced

8 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:55 Page 11

silicate which is non-conductive) Salinity is calculated as an SI- results of millions of salinity between different oceans which based extension of Practical determinations carried out and affects high precision Salinity and as a best estimate used by chemists, physicists, mathematical models of water of Absolute Salinity by practising biologists and engineers from all mass movement models widely research oceanographers. With over the world. The used in climate studies. As a regard to the IAPSO Standard comparability of these data is result of the WG127 work the Seawater Service, work is largely due to the widespread term Reference Salinity (SR) has currently under way in a joint use of a single source calibration been introduced which European project to profile the standard for salinity, IAPSO represents the best available density of each new batch. Standard Seawater. estimate of the Absolute Salinity Our understanding of global (SA) of an artificial seawater ACKNOWLEDGEMENT salinity depends largely on data solution with a Reference I am grateful to Nigel Higgs at Fig 4: IAPSO Standard Seawater from laboratory salinometers Composition that has (© P Ridout) and instruments at sea such as OSIL for his comments in his stoichiometry in molar fractions buoys, drifters, towed platforms, review of this paper. their own standards for various based on the most accurate autonomous underwater References reasons. The Japanese standard determinations of IAPSO vehicles and moorings. The Antonov, J. I., R. A. Locarnini, T. P. Boyer, A. V. manufacture was discontinued Standard Seawater constituents Mishonov, and H. E. Garcia, 2006. World Ocean WOCE programme involved Atlas 2005, Volume 2: Salinity. S. Levitus, Ed. in favour of the IAPSO standard and the 2005 atomic weights of scientists from 33 countries and NOAA Atlas NESDIS 62, U.S. Government which is now imported from IUPAC (Millero et al, 2008). Printing Office, Washington, D.C., 182 pp. produced the largest salinity Bacon, S., F. Culkin, N. Higgs and P. Ridout. OSIL and distributed in Japan. From a practical point of view dataset ever, so comparability of (2007). IAPSO Standard Seawater: Definition of Seawater salinity standards have the value of SR can be related the Uncertainty in the Calibration Procedure, and that data was crucial to its Stability of Recent Batches. Journal of also been produced in Russia to the Practical Salinity, SP by …. success. As subsequent ocean Atmospheric and Oceanic Technology, 24:10, and China as secondary 1785-1799 SR = (35.16504/35) g Kg-1 x S circulation projects related to standards, calibrated against the P Bergman, T., 1784. Physical and chemical essays climate change (eg CLIVAR) (translated by Edmund Cullen) Murray, London, IAPSO standard, for distribution Absolute Salinity offers 2 vol. collect even more salinity data, only in those countries. The several advantages over Practical Birch, T. (ed.), 1965. The works of Robert Boyle. the need for comparability Georg Olms, Hildeschiem, 6 vol. IAPSO Standard Seawater Salinity for oceanographic remains a top priority. Boyle, R., 1693. An account of the honourable Service (at IOS and OSIL), with purposes including its expression Robert Boyle's way of examining waters as to 1 freshness and saltness. Phil. Trans. Roy. Soc. some support from the World in SI units (g Kg- ), no Lond., 17, 627-641. Ocean Circulation Experiment limitations by scale (as in Culkin, F., and N.D. Smith, 1980, Determination (WOCE), the International PSS78), improved ocean of the Concentration of Potassium Chloride Solution having the same Electrical Conductivity, Oceanographic Commission and models (as SA is truly at 15ºC and Infinite Frequency, as Standard Unesco, has worked closely with Seawater of Salinity 35.0000%0 (Chlorinity conservative), reduced density 19.37394%0). scientists from both the Russian errors in the Equation of State Culkin, F. and P.S. Ridout, 1997, Stability of IAPSO and Chinese laboratories to for seawater. Hence, new Standard Seawater, J. Atmos. Oceanic. Technol., 15, 1072-1075. maintain comparability between algorithms have been Dittmar, W., 1884. Physics and Chemistry, Rept. the primary (IAPSO) standard formulated for density, enthalpy, Scient. Res. H.M.S. Challenger 1873-76, 1, 251 pp. and these secondary standards. entropy, potential temperature Feistel, R., (2008). A Gibbs Function for Seawater and sound speed in terms of Dynamics for -6 C to 80 C and Salinity up to Recent work by the Absolute Salinity, temperature 120g/Kg. Deep Sea Research I, 55, 1639-1671. SCOR/IAPSO Working Group Fig 5: An instrument buoy used to Forchhammer G. (1865) On the composition of and pressure (Feistel, 2008). 127 (WG127) has resulted in measure salinity at sea. seawater in different parts of the ocean. Philos. Trans. R. Soc. London. 155, 203-262. improved algorithms and Practical Salinity remains the The NASA satellite mission Knudsen, M., C. Forch and S.P.L. Sorensen, 1902. descriptions of the Bericht uber die chemische und physikalische preferred parameter for Aquarius SAC-D, due to be thermodynamic properties of measuring and storing salinity Untersuchung des Seewassers und die launched in June 2011, has an Aufstellung der neuen hydrographischen Tabellen seawater (TEOS-10). In order to Wiss. Meeresunters, n.f., 6, 13-184. data. This maintains the link with overarching scientific goal to achieve higher accuracy a measurements made in the past Lavoisier, A. 1772. Memoire sur l'usage de esprit- quantify and understand the de-vin dans l'analyse des eaux minerales, Mem. salinity variable was required and reduces the possibility of linkages among ocean Acad. Roy. Sci. (Paris), 1772, 555-563. which more accurately mislabelled salinity data from a Lewis, E.L., 1980. The practical salinity scale circulation, the global water 1978 and its antecedents. J. Oceanic represented Absolute Salinity wide range of sources. All cycle, and climate by accurately Engineering, 5, 3-8. than the conductivity-based instrumentation (in situ and measuring sea surface salinity. Millero, F.J., R. Feistel, D.G. Wright, T.J. McDougall, Practical Salinity. Absolute Salinity laboratory) for the measurement (2008). The Composition of Standard Seawater The accuracy and subsequent and the Definition of the Reference-Composition essentially represents the total Salinity Scale. Deep Sea Res., I, 55, 50-72. of Practical Salinity are value of these satellite data will dissolved salts whereas Practical conductivity based and the Unesco 1981, Background Papers and depend crucially on the high Supporting Data on the Practical Salinity Scale Salinity is calculated from only algorithms in software and quality data produced by in situ 1978, Unesco Technical Papers in Marine the conductive components. firmware can remain in place Science, No.37, Division of Marine Sciences, sampling and measurement. Unesco, Place de Fontenoy, 75700, Paris, France. This can lead to density thereby reducing the potential anomalies (for example due to for confused datasets. Reference Data centres contain the

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:56 Page 12

THE INTELLIGENT COLLEGE – STIMULATING THE STEM SKILLS SYSTEM

people into dead-end courses success rates, engaging with enterprise, innovation and civic that provided little chance of industry, responding to short- leadership. At the heart of the progression. Amongst these term changes – there remains a Intelligent College concept is the incentives was the pressure to problem. The prime aim of “golden thread” of innovation. recruit target numbers of colleges is to help generate Innovation in colleges primarily students and to get them prosperity through developing means the capacity to through courses. The number of people’s skills. They struggle to understand the needs of the qualifications taken was the do this in a way that is “strategic, future; translate that into measure, not where they led to, agile and market-led”. So what curriculum planning and or what they enabled a person can be done? generate the market for new Professor Sa'ad Medhat CEO, New Engineering Foundation to do or achieve. Such incentives qualifications and skills in (NEF) Wolf called “perverse”. THE INTELLIGENT partnership with employers and COLLEGE other civic leaders. The paradox of the “market” There is a broad political There are currently 351 in FE is that when the Innovation must also mean consensus about what colleges Colleges in England, including Government becomes the re-inventing the college. This is should be doing. It is 227 further education (FE) customer, the drive is to secure not the “institutional” obsession encapsulated by the Coalition colleges. Colleges educate funding and pass Ofsted. The with size, structure, acquisition or Government’s vision of “a 831,000 young people consequence is that the crisis in efficiency. Rather, it is to see the customer-focused locally compared with 423,000 in Science, Technology, Engineering role of the college in terms of its accountable system whose schools, academies and city and Mathematics (STEM) areas asset base. Colleges enjoy the strength is that it consists of technology colleges. persists: in the 2010 report, benefits of charitable status: their Ofsted identified science and competitive public and private beneficiaries are individuals, The achievements of colleges mathematics as the “least businesses with a social employers and communities. are mixed. By 2010 the 3 positively inspected area”. An mission” . The assets at their disposal in proportion of students who equally important concern is There are some encouraging providing for these groups are of successfully achieved their strategy or agility in working with signs in the new policies that will two main kinds: intellectual and qualification aim had risen to employers. There is a mixed govern the way colleges operate. physical. 81%, the highest ever rate. But track record here too. Across the The Government intends to strip in the same year Ofsted On the intellectual side, the country there are some out micromanagement and to commented: “Of the 79 colleges prominent currency is training marvellous examples of colleges “free up” colleges. It is even inspected 44 are good or better. through courses that lead working with employers on possible that austerity itself will However, too many colleges (mainly) to qualifications. But innovative projects. Most general become the mother of invention. remain satisfactory with capacity there is more to it. Colleges also FE colleges came into being to to improve”1. The current situation have the potential for horizon- meet the need of industries and prompted the New Engineering scanning and knowledge transfer; The Wolf Review of Vocational most today will be able to Foundation, which is leading the research, design and Skills 2 picked up the underlying identify hundreds of employers transformation of the UK STEM development of products and problem that by measuring with whom they work. Many of performance, to develop its idea services as well as for “incubation success rates the value of the these interactions are viewed of the Intelligent College. services” for entrepreneurs. qualifications themselves was very highly by employers and not recognised. This is not seen reflected by on-going relations. The Intelligent College builds And then there are the as caused solely by colleges: the However, there remains criticism on existing outstanding practice physical assets – learning space, Review cited the “deceit” and from employers’ groups that the but also takes a big step in a equipment and access to “dishonesty” of a system where FE system is too complex and new direction – from colleges internet resources. Colleges can short-term institutional incentives too unresponsive to meet the reacting to funding, inspection turn these assets into generating (such as funding and needs of business. and initiatives to that of colleges new products with and for SMEs accountability) caused colleges inventing the future through the and entrepreneurs. Together with For all their achievements – and schools to direct young dynamism of horizon-scanning, the intelligent use of intellectual improved inspections, greater

10 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:56 Page 13

assets, colleges can build on • Pioneering: on skills, as a their strengths, and their horizon-scanner and transferor experience, to become an of knowledge indispensible first-choice partner • Designing: courses, training and to employers and entrepreneurs. partnerships that deliver new An Intelligent College skills and experiences approach would be to shape the • Innovating: making the way a college can: connections that make change • Realise the potential of their happen resources and equipment and • Leading: on ideas and provide business development initiatives with partners services for entrepreneurs and SMEs Putting all this together would place Intelligent Colleges centre- • Horizon-scan industrial sectors stage as partners for prosperity. in partnership with key Professor Sa’ad Medhat explains the benefits of enhanced STEM Intelligent Colleges would not employers to develop relevant education to HM The Queen Elizabeth II at City and Islington College that come about by chance or by was presented with the STEM Assured award, London 30 March 2011 training small changes – a shift to • Help to address the difficulties customer focus, enterprising carbon and sustainability), productive partnerships with in providing apprenticeships “knowledge transfer” requires a strategic approach to colleges, is geared to help with SMEs professionals and lean, STEM. The New Engineering colleges define and achieve their integrated business systems is Foundation has developed STEM true value as Intelligent Colleges. • Contribute to effective challenging. Assured, a unique standard that References: information, advice and assures the quality of STEM guidance about vocational and 1. Ofsted, The Annual Report 2009/2010 ASSURING A STRATEGIC education and training to validate (http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/Ofsted- occupational education so that APPROACH TO STEM colleges’ ability to meet the home/Annual-Report-2009- more young people, in SKILLS PROVISION needs of business and industry. 10/Learning-and-skills) particular, can make intelligent 2. Wolf, A., Review of Vocational Education Ensuring that FE colleges can It encourages a cross-curricular choices about careers approach to course design and – The Wolf Report, March 2011 respond to the STEM challenges (http://www.education.gov.uk/publicati delivery in STEM. • Work with employers to posed by market dynamics and ons/eOrderingDownload/The%20Wolf develop a curriculum that technology advancement, The elusive gain of colleges %20Report.pdf) promotes enterprise, particularly where technologies as major catalysts for innovation 3. Russell, G., Keynote Speech at the LSIS entrepreneurship and the are converging and require and socio-economic health is the Annual Governance Conference (https://www.lsis.org.uk/AboutLSIS/Me attributes needed for success knowledge, understanding and prize that can be attained. The at work diaCentre/NewsArticles/Pages/Greater- competence in multi-disciplined New Engineering Foundation, freedom-means-greater-responsibility- The Intelligent College will areas (eg technologies for low with its rich experience of says-agency-CEO.aspx) innovate in this way and work with employers to generate STEM ASSURED – A CASE STUDY FROM CITY AND ISLINGTON COLLEGE, prosperity and provide the skills LONDON needed for the economy. This is City and Islington undertook STEM Assured with a focus on their Centre for Applied Sciences. critical to STEM industries which They were aware of some pockets of best practice in their STEM provision, particularly in are among the industries of forensics, optics, and health- and medical-related provision. The college wanted to highlight those Britain’s future: high-value areas that were developed with very close engagement with industry. These courses, not engineering and manufacturing, surprisingly, also have a high impact in terms of progression to Higher Education and biotechnologies and low-carbon employment. technologies. They need a good supply of skills of the right kind The Validation Panel, which draws senior industry representatives, agreed that some of City and in the right place at the right Islington courses set a benchmark for the sector in those subjects. Other highlights of the time. submission include: the innovative work in developing a flexible and work-based apprenticeship programme with local employers; the approaches by Science and Optics to improve learning Running a college for the opportunities and development of online seminars to drive scholarly activity. Although use of point of view of generating these Alumni is not common practice in FE, the Alumni from the forensics courses have been benefits means the college encouraged to stay in contact, thereby enabling measurement of impact. Dr Steve Jones, who needs to be: heads the Centre for Applied Sciences, said during the formal presentation of the award by HM • Enterprising: in the way it is The Queen: “STEM Assured helped us to focus our efforts and build an integrated STEM strategy run, in its people, its action and to enable a long term growth for the centre and the college.” its impact

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 11 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:56 Page 14

WELDING IS FUN, EXCITING AND REWARDING!

How do you get young people interested in and enthused about welding? Simple, a good dose of inspiration, a measure of excitement, a lot of fun, and some treats! The Welding Institute, one of the smaller Professional Engineering Institutions, delivered a novel and highly popular attraction at the Big Bang UK Young Scientists’ and Engineers’ Fairs in Manchester in Eur Ing Chris Eady BSc(Hons) MSc CEng MRAeS MWeldI March 2010, and again in London from 10 to 12 March this year. Associate Director, Professional Affairs The Welding Institute With the ‘Welding with investigated the microstructures of welded structures, mostly in Chocolate’ experiment, designed and properties of laser and support of the oil and gas by TWI Ltd structural integrity laser/arc hybrid welds in industry, Philippa is always engineer Dr Philippa Moore, as pipeline steels, and her work generating new ideas to create the cornerstone of our welding has been published through a hands-on, inspirational, engineering outreach number of conferences and interactive engineering activities programme, how could we fail journals. In addition to her role that can be used to promote to delight? in the Fracture Integrity engineering, technology and Management section at TWI in science to young people. A Cambridge University Cambridge, which involves her Philippa has participated in Materials Science and Metallurgy in fracture toughness testing and numerous educational outreach graduate, Philippa’s PhD fitness-for-service assessments activities, the most recent of

Dr Philippa Moore receives her Leslie Lidstone Medal from Steve Yianni of Network Rail, and Chairman of Council of The Welding Institute

12 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:56 Page 15

which is her Welding with hands often need a good wash Chocolate experiment. once they have been licked clean of chocolate! Having developed the Welding with Chocolate The experiment encourages experiment in her own time, participants to load a single plain Philippa has taken it from a beam with weights until failure. school-based experiment trialled The load bearing capacity of the at Science Week at the beam is noted and the failure University of Cambridge in mode and appearance of the 2009, to the Big Bang Science fracture face can be discussed Fairs in Manchester and London, to develop understanding of SkillsLondon at the Excel Centre, overload and brittle failure, or and SkillsCymru in Cardiff, ductile failure in the case of reaching out to over 100,000 those girder-like composite young people in 2010 and confectioneries. In speculating approximately 29,000 so far this over the potential load carrying year. capacity of four beams welded into a box girder, participants For her client-focused project often forecast four, five or six work as well as her exceptional times the weight to failure engineering outreach compared to the plain beam; contributions, The Welding although one visitor to our stand Institute awarded Philippa its confidently stated that it would 2010 Leslie Lidstone Medal, be much more than four times, sponsored by ESAB Group UK, otherwise we wouldn’t be doing which is awarded annually to the experiment, which was more the person under 40 years of of a comment from experience age who is deemed to have of life than experience of GCSE made the most significant Physics! contribution (not associated with the manufacture and supply of Surprisingly for most is that welding consumables and the box girder is often able to You’re only as good as your last weld, and they look pretty pleased with this welded chocolate box-girder bridge! equipment) to the advancement support twenty to forty times the of welding technology during load that caused the plain beam the period of five years to fail, providing an impressive concern amongst employers that is the scale of the structure, or preceding the year of the award. visual confirmation of the the image of welding dissuades the light it permits into or Philippa was the first female performance benefit of welded potential new entrants from through a space that observers recipient of this award in its 30- fabrications. When the box girder joining the industry but it is not find impressive without any year history. eventually fails there is much so much that welding has a concern for how the chocolate to be eaten but not poor image, more that it is rarely construction was fabricated. Whilst superficially ‘fun with before some discussion on the seen at all. Anglo-Saxon and food’, Welding with Chocolate is Many visitors to The Welding location of the fracture and the Viking pattern-welded swords a brilliantly simple engineering Institute’s exhibition stands and effects of fit up, distortion and were the superior technology of experiment that communicates engineering outreach events weld quality, of course. their ages, and their blades were the principles of fusion welding have little knowledge of welding etched to highlight the and the benefits of welded As deliverable on the or how welding has made their “serpents” in the steel. Having fabrication in structural domestic kitchen table as it is in world and the products within it; gained the status to own one of engineering, all in a safe and the science laboratory, the through the Welding with these outstanding pieces of highly enjoyable hands-on Welding with Chocolate Chocolate experiment they have craftsmanship, the owners activity. Using beams of low experiment is an exceptional learned about the process and wanted the welding to be seen melting point engineering hands-on experience that brings application of welding and it has and, unfortunately for their material (chocolate), hot plate real engineering practices and sparked their enthusiasm for opponents, most likely the last welding is used to create fillet principles within the sticky (often engineering and technology. thing to be seen. Today’s welds between four beams to literally) grasp of learners from Above all, Welding with materials joining and welding is fabricate a box girder structure. age 7 to 17. Chocolate has shown that hidden in the finished product, The heat source is from bottles engineering, and specifically With significant reliance on painted, clad or covered, and is filled with hot water and no welding engineering, is fun! manufacturing to generate UK rarely seen or appreciated by safety equipment is required by economic growth, there is much the end-user. More commonly it the welder, although sticky

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 13 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:56 Page 16

HAS GOVERNMENT FORGOTTEN THE “E” AND “T” OF STEM EDUCATION?

When the new Government was formed a year ago, they put “re- balancing the economy” at the heart of their agenda. They recognised that an important element of achieving this would mean increasing the numbers of young people becoming engineers and technicians. Inevitably there is always more than one agenda in politics, and reassuring rhetoric about the importance of engineering and technology needs to be

Dr Tony Whitehead complemented by effective action. So, one year in, how is Director of Policy at the Institution of Engineering and Technology engineering education faring under the Coalition?

For schools, the change of development and appreciation sideline D&T by excluding it Government has seen a of engineering skills, such as from the English Baccalaureate renewed focus on traditional Design & Technology (D&T). The and through future changes to subjects, not least Maths and introduction of D&T in the mid the National Curriculum would Science. As Maths and Science 1980’s enabled young people be a huge mistake. Moreover, it are “gateway” subjects that to have first-hand experience of would put the UK out of step provide the underpinning practical work that translates with international trends. The knowledge for many students science and innovation into the UK’s introduction of D&T as a who go on to study engineering products that people use in their separate subject has been (and indeed other subjects) at a daily lives. Universities clearly copied in leading economies later stage, the focus on these recognise the value of D&T, an across the world, including parts subjects is very welcome. A-Level which is listed as of the USA, Australia, New However, this focus should not essential or useful for entry to Zealand, Finland, Sweden, the come at the expense of other most engineering degrees. Netherlands, Taiwan, Germany subjects that underpin and South Africa. For the Coalition to now

Across all levels of education, we need to do more to sell engineering careers to girls and women

14 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:56 Page 17

Whilst practical technology not be at the level required for subjects risk being sidelined in roles as engineering technicians. many schools, the Government The Wolf Review included has recognised their importance many welcome proposals for through support for University reform, but the remit of the Technical Colleges (UTCs). UTCs review was limited to 14-19 are a new type of school in year olds. With the rise in which students between 14 and university tuition fees, young 19 years of age will receive people may be open to teaching in specialist subjects alternatives to university, like engineering. Crucially, each including engineering UTC is linked to a university, as a apprenticeships. However, for means of ensuring the provision alternative routes to be attractive of a high quality, academically they need truly to be a route to challenging education, which will future employment and not ensure that students are well seen as second best or even a equipped when the time comes dead end. Most large companies Whilst practical technology subjects risk being sidelined in many schools, for them to make the transition the Government has recognised their importance through support for make career progression from school to university. Given University Technical Colleges following an apprenticeship the unfortunate British tendency possible, for example by offering to underestimate the value of earnings of engineering address this problem. However, sponsored HNDs, HNCs or practical education, unlike many graduates compared to while there are clearly roles here Foundation Degrees for those other leading economies, graduates with other for educators and employers, that wish to pursue further maintaining this reputation for qualifications. Four of the top there is also a vitally important high quality will be vital to UTCs’ qualifications. However, the ten graduate salaries are in role for government. The success – and, encouragingly, same is not always the case in engineering subjects. From the Coalition has dramatically the early signs are very good SMEs, who find it more difficult point of view of universities, it reduced state funding for indeed. to support the overhead costs of seems likely that, for the next science and engineering training. The current and year at least, Vice Chancellors diversity activities, which The Coalition deserves credit continuing financial pressure on will favour subjects which still suggests that they do not see for not decimating the Further employers increases the onus bring in a teaching grant, which this area as a priority. Education budget and instead on the Government to support includes engineering. In the facing the bad press resulting Overall, engineering has held and streamline training between longer term, though, and from cuts to university funding. its ground in education since the technician and graduate levels – especially if the teaching grant Nonetheless, colleges have to Coalition came to power, but it a point which the Coalition has sees further cuts, it may be that deal with significant reductions, has yet to achieve its full not yet taken on board. expensive subjects like and these will impair their ability potential in contributing to the engineering become to train the next generation of Since the election, much of progress needed to “re-balance burdensome. In this case, technicians – who are so critical the fiercest debate about the economy”. The IET, universities will either cut to science and engineering education has focused on alongside partner organisations engineering or they will try to enterprises. As the severest universities. Engineering in the Education for Engineering recoup the money by charging engineering skills shortages are departments, many of which initiative, will continue to press higher fees for engineering than at technician level, this poses a take on high numbers of foreign the case. “STEM” means for subjects which are cheaper significant challenge and students, will be badly hit by different things to different to deliver. continuing threat to our changes to the immigration people, but Ministers should not economic recovery. Against the system. At this stage, it is less The IET’s most recent survey hear STEM and just think about backdrop of overall reductions in clear how engineering of engineering and technology Science and Maths. The “T” and Further Education funding, the departments will be affected by companies found that 5% of the “E” matter too. Budget included £180 million of rising tuition fees. From the professional engineers and 4% extra money for 50,000 new point of view of students, who of engineering technicians apprenticeships. Whilst this is will increasingly want to get currently working in industry are welcome, reading the small print value and better employment female. These are disturbingly in the Budget makes clear that prospects from the investment low figures. Across all levels of the main purpose of this degree, engineering may seem education, we need to do more funding is addressing the NEET a more attractive option than it to sell engineering careers to problem – those who are not in has been in the past – girls and women. The IET’s education, employment or reflecting, for example, recent Young Women Engineer Award The UK’s introduction of D&T as a research which shows the forms a key part of the separate subject has been copied training – and the majority of in leading economies across the significantly higher lifetime these new apprenticeships will profession’s own effort to world

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 15 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:56 Page 18

WHY IS HOMEOPATHY SO CONTROVERSIAL?

These are far from being the rather than the primary effect of Although the work is preliminary first attacks on homeopathy in the drug. Homeopathy is based many believe that its 200-year history, yet it refuses on the systematic exploitation of ‘nanostructures’ in water may be to go away. Sales are steadily such effects. But the involved. Supporters of this view rising and its popularity is controversial aspect of include the Nobel Laureate Luc international: over 50% of the homeopathy is its use of very Montagnier, who has published French use it, and the Germans dilute medicines, including so- remarkable results supporting are not far behind. There are called ‘ultramolecular’ dilutions, this hypothesis, although these some 250,000 homeopathic diluted beyond the point at await independent replication. Dr Peter Fisher doctors in India while in which (according to Avogadro’s Clinical Director, Royal London There are three main public Hospital for Integrated Medicine countries as diverse as the USA Law) the starting substance policy issues relating to and the former communist bloc, persists. homeopathy: regulation of homeopathy appeared to be in Homeopathy has attracted This is a fundamental practitioners, regulation of terminal decline for much of the a lot of attention lately: the scientific problem, and some medicines and NHS provision. 20th century, only to stage a Commons Science and scientists argue that Much criticism of homeopathy Technology Committee report dramatic recovery at the end of homeopathy ‘doesn’t work arises from irresponsible advice published in February 2010 the century. Our hospital, the because it can’t work’ so any given by unregulated called for it to be banned Royal London Hospital for from the NHS and for no apparent effects must be due to practitioners, for instance on Integrated Medicine (until further research to be placebo. Yet there is provocative malaria prophylaxis. The Faculty September 2010 the Royal conducted. But this report was evidence from clinical trials that of Homeopathy, which admits London Homoeopathic heavily criticised, not least for homeopathy is effective in only statutorily registered health its failure to take evidence Hospital), is the most conditions including diarrhoea, professionals, takes a firm line from a single patient who had recommended hospital in the fibromyalgia, ‘flu, hayfever, on this. But many practitioners experienced homeopathic entire NHS, according to the treatment and from only one osteoarthritis, sinusitis and are not regulated health NHS Choices website. practitioner (me), while calling vertigo, and that these are not professionals and standards vary a number of well-known What is behind this sharp due to placebo. But clinical trials widely. As long ago as 2000, the sceptics including lack of consensus? Homeopathy are a clumsy way to deal with Lords Science and Technology representatives of Sense is a form of complementary the basic scientific questions, Committee, chaired by Lord about Science, a lobby group medicine based on the idea of and there has been a rapid Walton, recommended that which has campaigned ‘Like cures like’, founded by the growth in test tube research. acupuncturists and medical stridently against homeopathy. An Early Day Motion (EDM German physician Samuel The best established is the herbalists be regulated and that 908 session 2009/10) highly Hahnemann in the early 19th effect of histamine in the homeopaths might follow. critical of the report was century, although similar ideas Human Basophil Degranulation Andrew Lansley announced in signed by 70 MPs. The can be found earlier in the Test, a test tube model of February that medical herbalists Government’s response history of medicine. This idea is allergic response. Histamine is are to be regulated by the rejected the suggestion that reflected in toxicology and part of the allergic response, but Health Professions Council; the Department of Health take the ‘unusual step of removing pharmacology: hormesis, in homeopathic dilutions damps there may be a precedent here PCTs’ flexibility to make their rebound effects and paradoxical it down, a finding which has for homeopaths. own decisions’, and declined pharmacology are all paradoxical been repeatedly verified by The MHRA has launched an to rule out further research effects of drugs and toxins as a different scientific teams. informal consultation on funding. function of dose or time. They Beyond this is the question of regulation of homeopathic depend on the body’s reaction how these effects are mediated. medicines as part of its

16 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:56 Page 19

response to the Commons where the system is more patient-doctor relationship, Johns Hopkins, Harvard and the Select Committee report. This sensitive to patient demand. The patient choice and control and Mayo Clinic. focuses on its obligations in specialist centres: the Bristol and support for natural healing It is no accident that European legislation and the Glasgow Homeopathic before resort to high impact, homeopathy is popular and future of homeopathic Product Hospitals, a department in high cost interventions. At a time resilient, and the scientific Licences of Right (PLRs) as part Liverpool and the Royal London when the NHS badly needs debate lively. Parliament should of the consolidation of the Hospital for Integrated Medicine, non-drug treatments and to not interfere with the Medicines Act. have diversified beyond encourage self-care these preferences of consumers or homeopathy, adopting centres have a vital role to play. Finally, NHS provision: the patients except where there are integrated medicine: bringing Integrated Medicine is an NHS has always provided public protection issues. It together conventional medicine international movement, the US homeopathy and demand should encourage investigation with high quality complementary Consortium of Academic Health remains strong. Significant of scientific anomalies such as medicine to achieve the best Centers for Integrative Medicine numbers of GPs use it, although homeopathy. results for patients. Integrated comprises 46 academic medical the numbers are far below Medicine emphasises the centres, including Stanford, Yale, western European countries

Letter to the Editor Sir,

The debate over the United Kingdom Centre for Medical Research & Innovation (UKCMRI) demonstrates a need for the Science & Technology Select Committee to widen its brief.

The new centre, with considerable support from the Wellcome Foundation, brings together the Medical Research Council’s National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR), University College London (UCL) and Cancer Research UK. Its task is to reduce the time taken to bring newly developed drugs into use. This is during a period when the large pharmaceutical companies, faced with stiffer competition and the rising cost of developing new drugs, are cutting back on in-house research.

How far does the new set-up change the status of the NIMR? Is the MRC’s largest single scientific facility now a private or public body? What are the implications of merging the three bodies for the role of the MRC as a public body? Few would disagree with the consortium’s objective of speeding up the process of getting research ‘from bench to bedside’, but the use of this phrase implies shortcuts at the expense of the longer-term goals of medical science and research practice.

The claim that it will act as a catalyst speeding up the application and take-up of scientific research is not in itself sufficient justification for a major change of direction. How are we to identify and measure this change? None of the partners to the deal were able to give the Select Committee a convincing account of how research will be transformed into results. Yet without this there can be no justification for spending £200 million of public money on the new centre. Increasingly, it seems, corporate research is outsourced and academics are encouraged to set up companies whose intellectual property rights are then sold on to the large brands. To the extent that we can talk of a ‘model’ for UKCMRI, it seems suspiciously similar to the unattractive face of the industry at large.

What is the precise relationship between the four partners? What ethical constraints arise from potential conflicts of interest? What models of international competition are relevant in developing a centre of this kind? What is so novel about the enterprise to justify the move from its existing premises in Mill Hill? Not least, will the Science & Technology Committee be able to subject all activity within UKCRMI Ltd to future scrutiny? And, following from this, is the Select Committee in a stronger or weaker position to protect the public interest?

Yours faithfully,

John Mason 56 Midhope House Whidborne Street London WC1H 8HH

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 17 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:56 Page 20

STRATEGICALLY IMPORTANT METALS The authors believe that there is merit in the UK aiming to become ‘World Leaders’ in resource efficiency since this will ultimately lead to more competitive product performance, less impact on the environment and a greater level of materials security in the future.

What is important to one which are dispersed into the account the ‘business as usual’ organisation might be unimpor- atmosphere. However, when a projection is for the global tant to another but the word food container has been utilised demand for minerals and metals strategic itself already suggests the material can be recovered to continue to increase for the something that is important/ and re-used. The relative merits foreseeable future. This will put essential and in so being will of using glass, steel or aluminium pressure on supply of materials require a plan of action, or for food containers is not the and so it makes sense to analyse campaign, to address the subject of this discussion – that is these trends in order to be in a potential risks or opportunities a matter for a detailed position to adopt strategies that that relate to any specific metal. comparative life cycle prevent resource constraints assessment for all of the options becoming a developmental In a non-military situation the Tony Hartwell relating to food packaging. If constraint or a cause for disputes. objectives of organisations and Knowledge Transfer Manager managed correctly the The Environmental Sustainability nations can be difficult to define The huge expansion of the production of new products from Knowledge Transfer Network or reach consensus. British economy following the secondary materials can have a Nevertheless, since the Industrial Revolution was built on lower impact on the biosphere publication of the Bruntland coal, enabling large increases in than producing the same Report, (Our Common Future) in the development of iron and products from primary raw 1987, there has been a steel and the production of materials. Here it is also recognition that we need to machines and infrastructure to important to remember that consider the impact of our support a wide range of there can be no production from current behaviour on the mechanised manufacturing secondary source unless some wellbeing of future generations. A systems. If the supplies of the primary production has occurred trend towards more sustainable materials required were somewhere. However the main global development can be inadequate or the markets for point that we want to highlight adopted from an altruistic stance the manufactured products were here is that consideration must or through recognition that a too small these were sought be given to the ‘end-of-life’ fate more sustainable use of elsewhere on the globe. This led of materials and the best way to Louis Brimacombe resources will be more stable. to the discovery of many mineral deal with this is to ensure that Chairman, Sustainable deposits that were more Development Group, IOM3 Given the UK Government’s these issues are addressed at the economic to exploit than those in objective to be the ‘Greenest design stage so that the recovery the UK and many other parts of Government ever’ perhaps we of resources at end-of-life can be Europe. Initially, minerals were One problem of tackling can consider the sustainability of optimised. shipped to the UK (Europe) for UK society as the objective and the issue of ‘Strategically The average consumption rate processing but as economies in then consider metals in this Important Metals’ is first in of metals for different nations the host countries develop the context. trying to define what is varies according to their level of tendency has been for them to meant by the term. Recent media interest in Rare industrial development. The move down the supply chain in Earth Metals has prompted some consumption rates for developed order to recoup more added One dictionary provides to make the analogy with the economies are significantly higher value. The UK has retained the three definitions of concept of Peak Oil. However than the least developed production of some primary ‘strategic’: there is a significant difference countries. As consumption rates metals (Steel and Aluminium) important or essential in between the use of materials for increase in the fast growing BRIC but not as many as other functional purposes, such as a economies (Brazil, Russia, India & economies with a strong relation to a plan of action, food container made from glass, China) the global average rate is manufacturing base (Germany, essential to the effective steel or aluminium and the use increasing (see USGS Publication Japan, France, Sweden, etc). In conduct of war, of fossil hydrocarbons as fuels. ‘The Global Flow of Metals and the past 25 years facilities to When fuel is utilised it is Minerals’, 2008). When the fact process and produce the highly important to an consumed in the process – it is that the global population is still following metals have been shut intended objective converted into gaseous species increasing is also taken into down: primary copper, tin and

18 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:56 Page 21

other metals from complex tin UK. To build on the existing are going to run out of anything materials availability in the future. ores, primary zinc and lead, ferro- specialist knowledge that serves in the near future. What we are However the solutions are not manganese and other ferro- the aerospace, automotive, saying is that we need to monitor purely technical; we need to alloys, etc, and the primary power generation, chemical and the quantities of all of the understand more about the capacity for producing iron, steel other sectors we must ensure resources that we utilise and environment and our interactions and aluminium has fallen over that we encourage R&D across ensure that we implement with all levels of the biosphere. the same period. the materials supply chain and programmes that encourage We need to consider social ensure that we train sufficient more sustainable materials cohesion and sustainability on a The UK is not in a position to numbers of designers, scientists, management. This is a logical global scale and debate how we produce all of the metals that are engineers and metallurgists with way of addressing global issues can develop systems that required in a modern economy knowledge of the principles of that arise from the impact of an promote human wellbeing. To based on advanced technologies. sustainable materials increasing human population and date technical advances have However, to retain a share of management. We also need to growth in national GDPs. We kept the predictions of Malthus global markets it is important that enhance the level of awareness must strive for continuous and Boulding at bay. If we try to we retain the ability to develop in the general public of the social improvement in the way we understand and address the new materials, to optimise the value of materials and how design, manufacture utilise and issues that humanity may face in performance and utilisation of materials have played, and will reprocess materials and products. the future we will have a chance the materials in the economy. continue to play, a major role in In fact there is merit in becoming of addressing them but if we We must invest in the our technology based societies. ‘World Leaders’ with regard to adopt a ‘laissez-faire’ approach appropriate facilities and skills The goal must be to use resource efficiency since this will we are gambling with the necessary to produce some of materials in more intelligent ways ultimately lead to better and prospects for the future and we the special materials that are so that, in relative terms, we can more competitive product would not be using lessons that required to support the achieve more with less. performance, less impact on the we should have learned from manufacturing industries that are environment and a greater level history. based in the UK or are currently This is not another scare story. of security with respect to serviced by products from the We are not suggesting that we SHORTAGE OF RARE EARTHS

manufacture of the respective provide the opportunity to Bloomberg news, August 29 2010 devices. explore alternatives that may be “China cut its export quotas of rare earths by 72% for the second half of this year, technically superior, enhancing Polishing of precision glass according to data from the Ministry of competitiveness. Commerce on July 8. Shipments will be and similar materials depends capped at 7,976 tonnes, down from 28,417 strategically on a particular SUPPORTING EXTRACTS: tonnes for the same period a year ago.” polishing compound – Cerium Paul Kingscot, Sales Director, Engis UK Ltd, Report of US Government Accountability Sept 16 2010 Oxide. Cerium is a rare earth Office, Briefing for Congressional Committee, “I am getting gloomy reports about the price element extracted predominantly April 14, 2010, Belva M. Martin, Acting and availability of cerium oxide. Apparently Director , Acquisition and Sourcing in China. This class of elements the manufacturer of cerox has run out of raw Management material to process. I advise alternative is in increasingly short supply “Most rare earth material processing now polishing methods are explored as a plan ‘B’” Professor David D Walker worldwide, with soaring prices occurs in China. In 2009, China produced University College London, due to increasing demand and about 97 per cent of rare earth oxides.” Bloomberg news, Sept 17 2010 Glyndwr University, Zeeko Ltd intervention of the Chinese “A 2009 National Defense Stockpile “Aggregate prices for rare earths have risen to configuration report identified lanthanum, $51 a kilogram, from about $15 a kilogram in government in the market. Whilst The multi-£B market in cerium, europium, and gadolinium as having April” market dynamics may restore the already caused some kind of weapon system precision surfaces (lenses, Bloomberg news, Oct 21 2010 position in time, our high production delay and recommended further mirrors, windows, semiconductor study to determine the severity of the delays.” “Prices have climbed sevenfold in the last six strategic dependence on Cerium months for cerium oxide contributing to the wafers, prisms, fibres etc) According to government and industry data, over numerous sectors, and the the future availability of materials from some rise in prices is an expectation of further underpins high-value products in restrictions. China will probably tighten export evident instability of its supply, rare earth elements – including neodymium, numerous sectors – aerospace, dysprosium, and terbium – is largely controls on rare earths next year” does not present a short or long controlled by Chinese suppliers. China’s semiconductor, defence, security, Bloomberg news, Feb 17 2011 “The price of dominant position in the rare earths market term position that is secure. cerium, a rare-earth mineral used in magnets, telecom, scientific and medical gives it market power, which could affect will drop to $10 a kilogram by 2013 from global rare earth supply and prices. In instrumentation, ophthalmic, I invite the Parliamentary and more than $60 currently as additional addition China has adopted domestic automobile, computer, consumer Scientific Committee to take due production creates a ‘vast oversupply,’ a production quotas on rare earth materials and mining exploration company said” durables, point-of-sale etc. The cognisance of this situation, and decreased its export quotas, which increases entire digital communications recommend that the UK prices in the Chinese and world rare earth For further information contact network depends on optical industrial and academic sectors materials markets. China increased export taxes on all rare earth materials to a range of Professor Walker at: fibres and associated photonic should co-operate to develop 15 to 25 per cent, which increases the price [email protected] devices. These materials all effective alternatives to Cerium- of inputs for non-Chinese competitors. require polishing during the based processes. This will also

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 19 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:56 Page 22

MEDICAL PHYSICS: FROM BLUE SKIES TO BEDSIDE. TURNING TODAY’S CUTTING-EDGE SCIENCE INTO TOMORROW’S HEALTHCARE TECHNOLOGY Meeting of the Parliamentary and Scientific Committee on Tuesday 1st February 2011 MEDICAL PHYSICS

Yet this is the every-day world application of a wide range of many more aspire to do so in of medical physics, applying the physics-based principles, post. It is also possible for fruits of basic physics research techniques and technologies in scientists who have pursued to clinical problems in a way that medical diagnosis, treatment careers in academia to move combines applied science, and research. This application into the profession if they can translational research and highly takes place in several show that they have fulfilled the developed problem-solving skills. overlapping contexts. training requirements in other ways. This ensures that the NHS Physics has been applied to • Support for clinical services is able to access scientists with the understanding of human where safety and quality cutting-edge experience in physiology and disease for at depend on an advanced emerging areas of science that Dr Stephen Keevil least a thousand years. Over the knowledge of physics, eg Department of Medical Physics, are ripe for translation into the centuries it has provided the interaction of radiation with the Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS clinic. Foundation Trust and Department basis of many medical human body in radiotherapy of Biomedical Engineering, King’s techniques and devices that we and x-ray imaging. Clinical technologists work College London take for granted, from the iconic alongside medical physicists in a Vice President for External Affairs, • Development and Institute of Physics and stethoscope to a simple pair of variety of roles, including patient- Engineering in Medicine implementation of new spectacles. Of course, physicists facing work in areas such as techniques that require an themselves do not need to be nuclear medicine and understanding of complex involved every time a radiotherapy, as well as less physics, eg advanced MRI stethoscope is used or glasses visible but nevertheless essential When techniques. are prescribed: as is the case in roles such as medical parliamentarians many areas of technology, • Research into new physics- equipment management. They glance across the physics provides the tools and based methods of diagnosis have traditionally come from a then slips quietly into the and therapy, eg optical imaging wide range of technical river at St Thomas’ background. However, a new and measurement. backgrounds, but graduate entry situation arose in the early years is increasingly common and Hospital, how many There are currently around of the twentieth century, when vocational degree programmes of them are aware 2,000 medical physicists increasing use of radiation and are under development. working in the NHS as part of that the basement radioactive materials in medicine the clinical scientist workforce. Modified training created a need for physicists to of the hospital New recruits need good degrees arrangements are currently being become engaged directly in houses what is in in physics or a closely-related introduced by the Department clinical work.1 These early area and undergo a four-year of Health as part of the effect an applied medical physicists used their vocational training, combined Modernising Scientific Careers knowledge, for example, to help particle physics with study for an MSc, to (MSC) project.2 This involves the standardise radiotherapy facility: a place achieve registration with the development of new training techniques and prescriptions Health Professions Council programmes for the entire NHS where particle and ensure the safety of both (HPC). Trainees study specialist healthcare science workforce patients and staff working with accelerators, smaller areas of applied physics, and (some 50,000 staff), including a radiation. Once medical physics siblings of the Large also relevant areas of medical shortened three-year had been established as a science and clinical practice that programme for medical Hadron Collider at profession in this way, it was will allow them to function physicists and, for the first time, able to grow and diversify as CERN, provide effectively as members of standardised training new physics-based imaging and multidisciplinary teams of arrangements for technologists. world-class clinical measurement techniques healthcare professionals. Entry is The first trainees who will diagnosis and were introduced. highly competitive: some recruits undertake these new treatment for cancer Medical physics today is a have acquired PhDs before programmes are currently being patients? diverse field, concerned with the beginning their training, and recruited. It is important to

20 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:56 Page 23

There is also thriving medical into a diagnostic tool of physics activity in UK unprecedented importance. universities. In 2008 the Translation into clinical practice is Wakeham Review 3 identified rarely so obvious or so medical applications of physics immediate: Edward Purcell and as an important area for growth, Felix Bloch discovered nuclear but reported a 30% reduction in magnetic resonance (NMR) in the number of medical physics 1946, again in the context of academics since 2001. fundamental physics research, However, the review was but it was the early 1970s concerned only with academics before Paul Lauterbur and Peter based in mainstream university Mansfield developed MRI, which physics departments, those is based on the NMR whose work was submitted to phenomenon and would not the physics unit of assessment have been possible without the in the Research Assessment earlier blue-skies work. It is Exercise (RAE). Elsewhere, the important to bear in mind the report acknowledged that serendipitous and frequently 48.3% of academic physicists long-term nature of these basic are not located in physics science spin offs in the debate departments. We believe that about using anticipated impact this figure includes a significant to inform research funding number of medical physics decisions. ensure that academic strength medicine, significant numbers of researchers who were submitted and flexible recruitment are medical physics staff are The medical physics to medical units of assessment. maintained as the new involved in diagnostic radiology profession is approaching its first For example, the staff of the arrangements are implemented. and radiation protection, and centenary, and the future looks Division of Imaging Sciences smaller numbers in more bright. There is no sign of an The origins of medical and Biomedical Engineering at specialist areas such as end to innovations in physics lie in the medical King’s College London, where I ultrasound, magnetic resonance established areas such as applications of ionizing radiation, am based academically, includes imaging (MRI) and clinical radiotherapy and MRI. At the and this remains at the core of four physics professors, and measurement. Medical same time, entirely new areas the profession. It is here that the there are plans to recruit several physicists often work closely are opening up, such as optical particle accelerators mentioned more. Rather than declining, it with biomedical and clinical imaging, which promises to earlier come into play. Linear may well be that medical engineers, and the blurred have an important role in post- accelerators (or ‘linacs’) form the physics research is simply boundary between the genome personalised diagnosis mainstay of radiotherapy moving into a more disciplines is reflected in the and treatment. These areas are treatment, while cyclotrons are multidisciplinary translational name and activities of the explored in more detail in used to produce the short-lived research environment. Institute of Physics and accompanying articles. The role radioisotopes needed for Engineering in Medicine (IPEM), Whilst this move towards of medical physics staff remains positron emission tomography the professional body and translational research is to be crucial in ensuring that new (PET), an advanced form of registered charity that aims to welcomed, it is important to physics-based technology is nuclear medicine imaging. As advance these fields for the recognise that crucial developed and deployed well as radiotherapy and nuclear public benefit. developments in medical effectively to provide the high physics are often serendipitous quality and cost effective and entirely unpredictable spin- outcomes that our patients need offs from basic science research. and deserve.

When Wilhelm Röntgen 1 Keevil SF (2011) Physics and medicine: discovered x-rays in 1895 he an historical perspective. The Lancet (in was working in a basic physics press) laboratory investigating electrical 2 http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/Aboutus/ discharge through vacuum Chiefprofessionalofficers/Chiefscientifico tubes, with possible medical fficer/DH_086661 [accessed 2nd March 2011] applications presumably far from his mind. But once the discovery 3 Research Councils UK (2008) Review of UK Physics. (Swindon: RCUK). had been made the implications Available at http://www.rcuk.ac.uk/ were obvious, and within three documents/reviews/physics/review.pdf months it had been translated [accessed 2nd March 2011]

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 21 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:56 Page 24

MEDICAL PHYSICS: FROM BLUE SKIES TO BEDSIDE. TURNING TODAY’S CUTTING-EDGE SCIENCE INTO TOMORROW’S HEALTHCARE TECHNOLOGY HARNESSING THE POWER OF LIGHT TO PROVIDE REAL-TIME NON-INVASIVE MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTICS

This short article has been written as a brief overview of the field of Biophotonics, with a focus on cancer detection. The objective is to highlight the potential of a rapidly advancing field, likely to have a significant impact on the way clinical diagnostics of the future are performed. The UK has a major role to play in this development and the impacts on the NHS and patient care are likely to be considerable.

WHAT IS successful treatment of any detection of malignancy using BIOPHOTONICS? malignancy is early detection. histopathological examination of Professor Nick Stone Although the pathogenesis of biopsy samples relies upon the Biophotonics is the term for Consultant Clinical Scientist most malignancies is not fully subjective assessment of tissue all techniques that deal with the (Medical Physics) understood, some cancers are architecture, which is likely to Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS interaction of biological material Foundation Trust known to develop through a demonstrate abnormal changes and light. This refers to emission, Cranfield University pre-malignant state. Current at a later stage than would detection, absorption, reflection, methods of detecting early analysis of biochemistry. modification, and creation of malignancies rely upon Furthermore, histopathological radiation from living organisms surveillance of at-risk analysis requires tissue to be and organic material. Here we populations or diagnostic removed with possibly discuss the prospects of utilising investigations following undesirable consequences. light as a diagnostic tool to presentation with suspicious Evidently, the development of a provide a way of testing symptoms. By the time rapid, non-invasive, qualitative individuals for the presence of symptoms are present tumours histochemical analysis early cancerous cells. are usually of a significant size, technique, enabling objective There are a number of and it is often too late to biochemical analysis of tissue, competing or complementary facilitate a full cure. would be of great value. This techniques currently being may be possible with a variety Biochemical changes within investigated. These include of optical techniques. cells and tissues may either fluorescence, Raman and initiate disease or occur as the Over the past few years a infrared spectroscopies, elastic result of the disease process. number of groups have been scattering and diffuse reflectance The qualitative analysis of such working towards real-time, non- spectroscopy. They each have changes provides important invasive techniques that utilise their pros and cons and clues in the search for a specific light to study abnormalities in depending on the application diagnosis and the quantitative tissue. Recent technological some may be selected above analysis of biochemical developments have made it others. abnormalities is important in possible to obtain significant THE CLINICAL NEED FOR measuring the extent of the amounts of biochemical or EARLY OBJECTIVE disease process, designing architectural data from extremely CANCER DIAGNOSIS therapy and evaluating the complex biological tissue in very efficacy of treatment. The short time scales (milliseconds The primary requirement for conventional method for to seconds). Optical diagnosis

22 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:56 Page 25

relies upon measurement of the utilising molecular-specific and decrease waiting times interest, for diagnosis and interaction of light photons with techniques may lead to the by reducing the number of monitoring, may enable signals the constituents of biological possibility of complete costly procedures required. to be probed from outside the tissue. The resultant data can replacement of biopsy with body.3 4. Tumour margins could be provide an evaluation of objective optical detection identified during surgical histochemistry or morphology. providing a real-time, highly SUMMARY resection, thus enabling a This information can aid with the sensitive and specific more accurately targeted There are significant benefits deduction of the pathological measurement of the tissue resection to be performed. for UK patients and the NHS in state of the tissue, and hence histological state. However until improving diagnosis of disease lead to a diagnosis. its efficacy is proven it is most 5. A surgeon with any doubt at an early stage. While likely that optical detection will over a diagnosis could cross- Light can interact with tissue conventional medicine of the be used as a complementary validate a previous diagnosis in a number of ways, including 20th century treated the effects technique to improve targeting prior to excision of an organ elastic and inelastic scattering; of disease, molecular medicine of biopsy selection. or lesion using a non-invasive reflection off boundary layers; in the 21st century will treat its optical probe. and absorption, leading to The clinical requirements for causes. This leads to the fluorescence and an objective, non-invasive real Techniques such as Raman requirement for personalised phosphorescence. All of these time probe for the accurate and spectroscopy (RS) and Fourier- medical treatment selection and can be utilised in some way to repeatable measurement of Transform Infra-red absorption monitoring – with clinical measure abnormal changes in tissue pathological states are spectroscopy (FTIR) have decisions based on patients’ tissue. Many authors have used overwhelming. There is a clinical recently provided evidence of own tumour expression, the term ‘Optical Biopsy’ when need for optical diagnosis in a discrimination between multiple enabling the selection of describing these techniques. number of important areas: pathology groups within each effective treatments for the Optical biopsy is a misnomer organ.1 Raman spectroscopy, individual and hence minimising 1. Situations where sampling because no tissue is removed in which can be performed unnecessary procedures. errors severely restrict the the analysis, however it does endoscopically at any excitation effectiveness of excisional The impact of technology for help to convey to the lay-person wavelength, is most likely to biopsy, such as the high patient care can be immense, the general principle of using provide in vivo diagnosis.2 FTIR failure rates associated with but so can the cost to resources. light to detect cancerous currently shows the greatest blind biopsies, whereby the This must be carefully managed transformations in tissue. promise for rapid in vitro clinician has to randomly and health economic arguments diagnosis and spectral imaging, Early forms of optical biopsy select sites for sample regarding benefits versus where water content of tissues systems, utilising tissue collection. This method is opportunity costs are vital. Novel does not prove problematic. fluorescence, have been used as used to screen for pre- diagnostic technologies, such as an adjunct to current malignant conditions such as Other techniques such as those found in the Biophotonics investigative techniques, mainly ulcerative colitis and Barrett’s optical coherence tomography arena can provide UK plc with to improve targeting of blind oesophagus. and optoacoustic imaging are significant income if we can biopsy. Some such as that demonstrating potential for high exploit these disruptive 2. Where conventional excisional shown in Figure 1 utilise agents spatial resolution in vivo imaging technologies in International biopsy is potentially to provide an enhanced disease which may one day provide healthcare markets. hazardous, examples of specific signal. Future prospects similar information to histology, vulnerable regions include although in real time. Whereas the central nervous system, 1 2009 Kendall, C, Isabelle, M, Hutchings, imaging techniques are always J, Babrah, J, Orr, L, Baker, R, Bazant- vascular system and articular eye-catching, it should be noted Hegemark, F, Stone, N, ‘Vibrational cartilage. that these techniques still spectroscopy: a clinical tool for cancer diagnostics.’ Analyst, 134, 1029-1045. 3. An immediate diagnosis provide information only about during an investigative structure and cellular 2 2009 J C C Day, R Bennett, B Smith, C Kendall, J Hutchings, G M Meaden, C procedure would eliminate morphology. To provide real Born, S Yu and N Stone, ‘A miniature the need for many secondary information about early confocal Raman probe for endoscopic procedures by enabling molecular changes and disease use.’ Phys. Med. Biol. 54 7077-7087.

treatment to take place prognosis those techniques that 3 2011 Stone, N, Kerssens, M, Lloyd, GR, Figure 1: An image taken during directly following diagnosis. provide extra-value information Faulds, K, Graham, D, Matousek, P, fluorescence bladder cystoscopy This is especially useful with on tissue biochemistry ‘Surface enhanced spatially offset following administration of a drug Raman spectroscopic (SESORS) which is differentially accumulated the development of associated with disease will be imaging – the next dimension.’, in abnormal tissues. Illumination of treatments utilising light the way forward. In the longer the tissue with blue light produces Chemical Science, DOI: a strong red fluorescence from energy, such as photo- term the use of contrast agents 10.1039/c0sc00570c. these regions of accumulation. This dynamic therapy and laser able to provide significant signal can enhance the performance of ablation. This is likely to enhancement of low biopsy selection and tumour margin removal. improve patient outcomes concentration molecules of

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 23 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:56 Page 26

MEDICAL PHYSICS: FROM BLUE SKIES TO BEDSIDE. TURNING TODAY’S CUTTING-EDGE SCIENCE INTO TOMORROW’S HEALTHCARE TECHNOLOGY THE ROLE OF MEDICAL PHYSICISTS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF WORLD CLASS RADIOTHERAPY FOR THE UK

Approximately 1 in 3 people will develop some form of cancer during their lifetime and around 1 in 4 people die from cancer. Cancer is a disease of the genome where damage accumulates over time. With the ageing population profile in the UK it is expected that by 2025 there will be an additional 100,000 cases of cancer diagnosed each year. Although the incidence of cancer has steadily increased over the past 30 years, the positive news is

Dr Carl Rowbottom PhD CSci that survival rates from cancer have improved year on year. FIPEM CPhys MinstP Radiotherapy Physics Group Leader, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust There are three pillars of radiotherapy continues to evolve to radiotherapy services. The cancer treatment; namely to improve survival and reduce role of the medical physicist is surgery, radiotherapy and side effects of treatment. threefold; they are central to chemotherapy. The patient safety, they develop new For a number of reasons management of cancer involves radiotherapy treatments, and there has, for many years, been using a combination of they are involved in research a national under-provision of treatment options such as and development of radiotherapy in the UK surgery followed by radiotherapy. radiotherapy equipment and compared to international It is 100 years since Marie Curie techniques. Medical physicists standards. It is estimated from won her second Nobel prize for ensure that the radiotherapy international best practice that the isolation of radium. The machines are working optimally, 52% of all cancer patients discovery of radium led to the and that the correct amount of should receive radiotherapy, but first treatments of cancer with radiation is given as precisely as in the UK approximately 40% of radiotherapy. 100 years on and possible to the cancer. This is cancer patients are given approximately two in every five crucial to the success of radiotherapy. This means that patients cured of their cancer radiotherapy treatment and the 30,000 patients a year are not will have received radiotherapy high levels of safety are receiving the best cancer care. as part of their treatment. maintained by approximately (https://www.sor.org/news/files Radiotherapy is also cost 800 medical physicists working /images/FAQs_about_the_camp effective, 13 times more cost in UK hospitals. Medical aign.pdf) To achieve comparable effective than chemotherapy physicists are also involved in rates of survival from cancer to (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/he the development of a those in leading western alth-12299533). Although the radiotherapy plan where countries it is likely that the gap main principles for treatment sophisticated computer in the provision of radiotherapy with radiotherapy have been programs are used to determine will need to be closed. established for some time the how to give radiation to the technology and application of Medical physicists are crucial tumour whilst protecting normal

24 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:56 Page 27

healthy tissue from harm. For of blue skies research leading to deposited prior to reaching the service of the NHS for a limited many years, UK based medical patient treatments. Proton tumour. Therefore a number of number of clinical indications. physicists have been involved in radiotherapy was first proposed radiation beams are required An expert reference panel the development of new in 1946 as a way to treat cancer from different angles to create a receives patient referrals for treatment techniques for (Wilson, Radiology (1946)). cross-fire effect at the tumour. treatment abroad at one of radiotherapy aimed at improving Early treatments with protons The better characteristics of the three centres: the Paul Scherrer the effectiveness of treatment as were performed by pioneering proton radiotherapy beam make Institute, Villigen, Switzerland, the well as reducing the potential physicists in particle accelerator it much more suitable for Centre-Protontherapie, Orsay, side effects. A recent example is laboratories in the US and reducing the amount of France, or the University of the development of Volumetric Sweden in the mid 1950s. radiation the healthy tissue Florida Proton Therapy Institute, Modulated Arc Therapy by Despite the early promise of this receives. Jacksonville, USA. This national Elekta, an internationally leading treatment technique it took until service has been available since The survival of childhood manufacturer of linear 1990 for the first hospital-based April 2008 and has resulted in cancers has improved over the accelerators used in radiotherapy proton radiotherapy centre to be more than 70 UK patients being past 30 years and continues to treatments. Elekta worked opened at Loma Linda in treated abroad to date. Although do so. However, as the tissue closely with medical physicists at California. By the end of 2010 providing a necessary and and bones of children are still the Royal Marsden Hospital in there were 29 proton important clinical service, developing they are more Sutton to develop the radiotherapy centres worldwide. treatment abroad for several sensitive to radiation than adults. radiotherapy technique and the Why are protons expected to weeks can provide significant Childhood cancer survivors also hospital treated the first patient improve the radiotherapy challenges for patients and their live with any potential side in the world with this technique treatment for cancer patients? carers. The treatment of patients effects of treatment for much in February 2008. Figure 1 shows the way abroad provides a service only longer. Oeffinger et al (NEJM radiation dose is deposited as for those who will benefit most The UK has a long history of (2006)) found that a childhood energy in human tissue by a from this form of treatment. scientists contributing to the field cancer survivor is three times proton radiotherapy beam and a However, in its current form the of medical physics and to more likely to have multiple traditional photon radiotherapy number of patients receiving this radiotherapy. Sir Godfrey health conditions than a sibling beam (10MV x-rays – dashed form of radiotherapy is unlikely Hounsfield received a Nobel that did not have childhood line). The tumour is shown at to meet fully the UK demand. prize for Medicine in 1979 for cancer. Proton radiotherapy is some depth within a patient and An early estimate of the number the invention of the CT-scanner, highly likely to reduce the side it is clear that the proton beam of patients that could benefit whilst Sir Peter Mansfield effects of treatment for gives up most of its energy from proton radiotherapy in received the same prize in 2003 childhood cancers and therefore where the tumour is located, England alone is in excess of for the invention of the MR reduce the burden of life-long and delivers less radiation on 1700 cases per annum scanner. Both CT and MR scans health conditions for these the way to the tumour. In (Improving Outcomes: A are now routinely used to define patients. comparison the traditional strategy for cancer. Department the size and location of a radiotherapy beam is less suited Proton radiotherapy is of Health (2011)). Treating this patient’s tumour and normal to treating the tumour with a currently available to UK patients number of patients at facilities healthy tissue prior to designing single beam as more radiation is via a specialised commissioning abroad would be a significant radiotherapy treatments. logistical challenge associated Professor Steve Webb, at The with substantial costs. It is Institute of Cancer Research, therefore highly likely that UK was an early pioneer in the Spread-out Tumor Bragg peak based proton radiotherapy development of intensity 100 - facilities will be required in the modulated radiotherapy, a next five years. Medical modern form of radiotherapy 80 - physicists will be essential for that is better able to spare the safe and effective healthy tissue, leading to fewer 60 - development of proton side effects from treatment. In 10 MV X-rays radiotherapy services within the 2008, Medicare in the US spent 40 - UK. Technical developments and

$1billion on intensity modulated Relative dose (%) innovations made by these radiotherapy treatments (The 20 - scientists, in collaboration with Wall Street Journal – A Device Bragg peak (protons) clinical colleagues and industry,

to Kill Cancer, Lift Revenue, 7th ------will enable further December 2010). 0 4 8 12 16 improvements in the treatment Where are the next Depth in tissue (cm) of cancer with proton advances in radiotherapy radiotherapy, enhancing treatment in the UK? Proton Figure 1: Reprinted with permission from ‘Technology Insight: proton treatments for future cancer beam radiotherapy for treatment in pediatric brain tumors’ Torunn I Yock radiotherapy is a clear example and Nancy J Tarbell, Nature Clinical Practice Oncology (2004) 1, 97-103 patients.

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 25 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:56 Page 28

MEDICAL PHYSICS: FROM BLUE SKIES TO BEDSIDE. TURNING TODAY’S CUTTING-EDGE SCIENCE INTO TOMORROW’S HEALTHCARE TECHNOLOGY MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING – A WINDOW INTO THE BODY FOR PATIENT CARE AND A RESEARCH TOOL FOR UNDERSTANDING THE BRAIN

INTRODUCTION London. Professor Sir Peter energy which are detected by Mansfield won a Nobel prize in carefully designed Magnetic resonance imaging 2003 for his contribution to this radiofrequency coils surrounding (MRI, Figure 1) is a sensitive work. The technique builds on the anatomy of interest. and flexible technique for clinical the analytical chemistry imaging and a remarkably In order to create an image technique of nuclear magnetic powerful tool for research in of the human body we need to resonance which produces both disease and health. be able to spatially localise the spectra representing the Medical physicists were the weak nuclear magnetic chemical constituents of small driving force behind the resonance waves emitted by the samples, but gives no spatial development of the technique body. This is done by applying a Dr Andy Simmons BSc MSc PhD information. The basic and continue to play a key role magnetic field gradient created CSci FIPEM phenomenon of nuclear in both clinical applications and by applying electrical currents Reader in Neuroimaging and magnetic resonance imaging Consultant Clinical Scientist, King’s cutting edge research. through carefully designed coils involves a patient lying in a large College London Institute of of wire known as gradient coils. Psychiatry, South London and powerful magnet while harmless By spatially varying the magnetic Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust pulses of radio waves are and NIHR Biomedical Research field this changes the resonant transmitted into the body. The Centre for Mental Health frequency or Larmor frequency MRI scanner then records the of the protons. weak radio waves which are Dr Simmons was subsequently emitted by the CLINICAL MAGNETIC unfortunately prevented body and uses these to create RESONANCE IMAGING detailed images of the body. from speaking at the Some of the first clinical meeting due to family The technique relies on a magnetic resonance imaging property of some nuclei termed illness, but has prepared systems were installed in UK spin and the fact that these hospitals with early applications this paper for publication. nuclei take one of two energy to the brain and body. The area Figure 1 – A modern magnetic states – a low or high energy resonance imaging system. of MRI has been a remarkably state – when placed in a exciting field to work in with magnetic field. By transmitting almost every year bringing an THE DEVELOPMENT OF radio waves at a specific expansion of both magnetic MAGNETIC RESONANCE frequency it is possible to excite resonance techniques and IMAGING nuclei from the low energy state applications. Indeed there are The UK played a pivotal role to the high energy state. After now more than 40 million MRI in the development of magnetic some time these nuclei then scans acquired every year. resonance imaging, in particular drop back from the high energy The strength of magnetic led by physicists from state to the low energy state, resonance imaging flows from Nottingham, Aberdeen and emitting bursts of radiofrequency

26 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:56 Page 29

two characteristics – the spectroscopy which studies Finally the NHS has a key psychology and neuroscience impressive soft tissue contrast metabolites in the brain and role to play in medical research, and to translate new research and the flexibility with which body. Magnetisation transfer particularly via the National techniques into clinical practice images demonstrating different imaging and perfusion MR Institute for Health Research as the neuroimaging coordinator image contrast can be displayed. imaging further expand the (NIHR) which aims to improve for the NIHR funded Biomedical As an example Figure 2 shows range of techniques available for translational, organisational and Research Centre for Mental how areas of tissue damaged by medical imaging, all driven by health service research. Health. vascular dementia can be the enquiring minds of physicists Two examples of this include chosen to appear as bright and engineers. A POWERFUL TOOL FOR new techniques to minimise the compared to the surrounding MEDICAL RESEARCH impact of patient motion on the intact brain tissue and dark THE ROLE OF THE While magnetic resonance quality of images and cerebrospinal fluid which MEDICAL PHYSICIST IN imaging is an excellent clinical developing tools to aid clinicians surrounds and cushions the MAGNETIC RESONANCE imaging technique, it has a in diagnosing Alzheimer’s brain. IMAGING parallel role to play in basic and disease, a priority for the nation The role of a medical translational research with and the government. Figure 3 physicist in magnetic resonance applications in oncology, shows the key areas at the base imaging is both varied and cardiology, psychology, of the brain where patients first exciting. Typically they will have a psychiatry, obesity and lose grey matter as the cortex leading role to play in the safe musculoskeletal research. thins. I was delighted when the use of magnetic resonance My own role bridges the area Department of Health chose to imaging. The powerful magnet between research and clinical, use some of my work to that the patient lies in is strong aiming to use MRI to answer publicise the launch of the latest enough to pull any new research questions in the NIHR funding round in early ferromagnetic item out of a area of psychiatry, neurology, March. careless user’s hands or pockets, and some medical implants mean that not all patients can Figure 2 – One of the strengths of be scanned. As with any piece MRI is excellent soft tissue contrast. of medical equipment it is The image above shows bright areas of vascular damage important that magnetic surrounding the dark ventricles filled resonance imaging systems are with cerebrospinal fluid. regularly tested as part of a planned programme of quality Brain and spine imaging are control work which the medical the most frequent use of MRI, physicist will normally lead on. but improvements in basic A mainstay of a medical physics and engineering have physicist’s working life is the meant that MRI is now used development of new techniques widely in musculoskeletal for clinical use and magnetic imaging, abdominal imaging, resonance imaging is no cardiac imaging and beyond. exception. Programming the The basic technique of highly complicated MRI scanners magnetic resonance imaging has to perform new techniques Figure 3 – Image illustrating the loss of grey matter in the human brain in been expanded and augmented requires years of training and a Alzheimer’s disease. The areas in white demonstrate thinning of the cortex towards the base of the brain, particularly in the temporal lobe. by a series of methodological substantial degree of skill and improvements driven by we are fortunate that the NHS physicists and engineers. These has so many talented medical include magnetic resonance physicists who are eager to rise SUMMARY angiography (MRA) which to this particular challenge. As Medical physicists have demonstrates the movement of well as programming the played a key role in the flowing blood in vessels scanners the medical physicist development of magnetic throughout the human body, also has a leading role to play in resonance imaging and now diffusion tensor imaging which designing tools for the analysis that the technique is established studies the random movement of images using either the continue to do so through both of water molecules which are manufacturer’s analysis clinical and research work. changed by diseases such as computers, or other computer stroke, and magnetic resonance workstations.

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 27 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:56 Page 30

THE MERSEY GATEWAY BRIDGE PROJECT: CHARGING AHEAD AND REDUCING CARBON EMISSIONS

The disciplines of are effectively cut off from each deprivation. This mix of funding engineering, architecture, and other. The idea of adding a has proved to be resilient traffic management are regular second bridge to boost capacity against the economic downturn partners when it comes to and provide greater resilience to and the deficit reduction constructing new bridges. the road network has been measures now taking place. around for the best part of two Add to that regeneration, decades. THE PROBLEM management of contaminated land and the creation of a 28.5 Since successfully negotiating Halton, and its neighbours in hectare nature reserve and you the Spending Review and being south Merseyside and north have a complex project. granted Planning Approval in the Cheshire, straddle the river but last two months of 2010 the currently only have one bridge The Mersey Gateway Project Steve Nicholson project stands at the cusp of (the Silver Jubilee Bridge) Project Director, Mersey Gateway is a major scheme that is delivery. covering the 30 miles between bringing together all these the tolled tunnels connecting disciplines to build a new six- Halton Borough Council, Liverpool with the Wirral, and lane toll bridge over the Mersey which is the main promoter of the crossings near Warrington, A major new road between the towns of Runcorn the Mersey Gateway project, has which include the M6 motorway building scheme that and Widnes. launched the first stage in its viaduct at Thelwall. procurement strategy that will is largely paid for by its The two towns both lie in the Improvements to this failing lead to the appointment of a borough of Halton, in north west transport system are now well users, has survived the Design, Build, Finance, and England, which is somewhat overdue. Government Spending Operate contractor who will unusual amongst local work in partnership with the The existing crossing was Review and is set to authorities in that it is effectively Council in a relationship originally built in 1961 and, reduce carbon split in two by a major expected to last for thirty years. despite work to upgrade it in emissions sounds too geographical feature (in this 1977 (hence its name), still good to be true. The case the River Mersey), with the The challenging project is to carries daily volumes in excess Mersey Gateway two halves currently linked by be funded through toll revenue of 80,000 vehicles. Congestion just a single road bridge. supported by government is, therefore, a frequent Project proves grants, which are sufficient to Therefore, when there is any occurrence, which causes otherwise. keep toll charges affordable in a kind of problem with this bridge, obvious problems in terms of region of relatively high social the two halves of the borough pollution, as well as delays to the general public and businesses. There are also problems associated with the fact that, as a borough split in two by a major river, Halton tends to have its major resources (such as its main hospital) on either one side of the Mersey or the other, leading to access issues if there is any problem with the existing bridge.

The poor resilience of the local transport system is also a

28 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:56 Page 31

serious concern to the region’s Multimodal Gateway – in emergency planning team that Halton), is a prominent advocate routinely assesses risk arising of the new bridge (tolls and all), from 20 significant industrial as is Peel Holdings, the owner sites in the area. If there is an and operator of the Manchester incident at one of these sites Ship Canal (which the new and the existing bridge is bridge would span) and unavailable due to an accident, Liverpool’s John Lennon Airport. or congestion, then this has a The new bridge will: significant impact for the fire and police services. The chief • be scheduled to open in 2016 constables of both Merseyside • be over 70% funded by the and Cheshire are consequently private sector through toll very strong supporters of the revenues new bridge. • mean an estimated 4,640 new The poor transport jobs through direct performance and reliability employment, regeneration concerns combine to produce a activity and inward investment powerful economic case for the new bridge. There are also • be a tolled crossing with a considerable environmental speed limit of 60mph benefits by keeping traffic • allow the creation of a green, The delivery cost, of over forewarned about the detailed moving and by managing the sustainable transport corridor £600m, will support the plans. growth in traffic through the across the existing Silver construction sector and a private tolling proposals. The successful private sector Jubilee Bridge sector led economic recovery in partner will have a key role to Tolling even at the relatively an area likely to feel the • be a major strategic new play in working alongside the modest cost we envisage, at spending cuts more than most. transport route linking the Council to ensure that the £1.50 for a car journey – which The Council and Government Liverpool city-region and the delivery of the project meets the will have resonance with users are about to embark on a much north west to the rest of the aspirations of the authority and as it is the same as today’s needed infrastructure scheme country. the demands of local people. Mersey Tunnel rates – does funded mainly by those moderate the use of the private PROCUREMENT BEGINS benefiting from the Mersey Gateway has the car, particularly reducing the AS PLANNING improvements. potential to be a great example number of the short distance car APPROVAL IS GRANTED of science and technology Exhaustive contaminated land trips crossing the river. To combining with policy innovation In December 2010, Halton studies, traffic modelling and improve the alternative public and on the ground regeneration Borough Council received legal procedures were required transport options, part of the to create jobs and revive local planning approval from the to get this far, but as our project funding will be used to communities. This could be an Secretaries of State and the thoughts turn towards the support bus services. Overall, example of modern localism Council is in the process of construction period itself the the combination of removing that can be considered concluding final funding focus returns to the practical congestion and moving some elsewhere. Our challenge over considerations with the impact that this project will have car travel to improved public the next four years is to take that Department for Transport. on the ground. Disruption is transport is expected to reduce potential and make it a reality. Procurement preparation inevitable during construction, carbon emissions – perhaps a commenced in spring 2011, and we must prepare and work You can find out more about unique outcome for a major following a final consultation with local communities to the progress of the Mersey road project in the UK? with interested suppliers. We ensure they are involved and Gateway Project at The Council’s enthusiasm for expect to begin the dialogue www.merseygateway.co.uk. the economic benefits of the phase in September of this year new bridge is backed up by and appoint a partner in April- several major business June of 2012. enterprises in the region. One of The plan is to commence the UK’s biggest road haulage construction with the advanced and logistics companies, Eddie works starting towards the end Stobart, for example (which is of next year and the new bridge the owner of a major intermodal opening in 2016. terminal – the Mersey

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 29 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:56 Page 32

PROJECT SUNSHINE – THE SCIENCE BEHIND FOOD AND ENERGY SUSTAINABILITY

The world is entering a period of crisis: there is not enough energy or food and their costs are rising; there is environmental destruction and loss of biodiversity at an accelerating rate; and there is increasing evidence of potentially catastrophic climate change. A common feature is the unsustainable nature of most human activity. The University of Sheffield has realigned its science research, creating Project Sunshine, to discover sustainable routes to food and energy security through Professor Tony Ryan OBE Pro-Vice-Chancellor, University of collaborative research and innovation, uniting scientists across Sheffield (Project Sunshine Director) the traditional boundaries in both the pure and applied sciences.

Prior to the industrial revolution, of new technologies and harvestable yield per hectare of limits on population and human systems that use the sun’s the major crops such as rice and activity were set by the sun, and energy more efficiently and wheat. In the case of energy, by the productivity of the land. more extensively to increase similar analyses suggest the The discovery and use of fossil food production and provide requirement to increase energy fuels changed everything – renewable energy at the same supply by an incredible 2-3 rather than being constrained by time reducing carbon emissions, times, to around 30 TW by the supply of energy from the decreasing environmental 2050. In this new scenario, sun, mankind could use the degradation and stabilising there is no alternative but to

energy of the sun’s action that atmospheric C02 levels. dramatically change the way we Professor Peter Horton FRS had been accumulated and use and produce energy and Emeritus Professor of Biochemistry, THE TRANSITION TO A University of Sheffield (Project “stored” underground for food, to adapt to the already Sunshine Research Director) hundreds of millions of years. SUSTAINABLE changed climate and to This apparently limitless supply ECONOMY ameliorate the extent of future of energy drove an Achieving this goal of change. All levels of human unprecedented period of growth sustainability will not be easy. In activity in all parts of the world in human population and the case of food, analysis of will be affected. The United technological development. Our population growth, agricultural Kingdom should position itself, use of fossil fuel thus creates a productivity and environmental just as it did in the industrial massive historical anomaly: sustainability presents a bleak revolution, to lead this change – unsustainable growth in scenario – too many people, not easing the transition to a demand for energy and food; enough yield, not enough land, sustainable economy by unsustainable drain on the not enough water, too much scientific research and earth’s finite natural resources; pollution, increased energy (and technological innovation. unsustainable environmental carbon) costs, and the uncertain degradation; unsustainable SOLUTIONS PROVIDED consequences of global BY INTERDISCIPLINARY pollution of our atmosphere. warming. According to the Only by re-making the link SCIENCE AND NEW Global Food and Farming TECHNOLOGY between the sun and human Futures Report, world food activity can we again establish production will need to increase Whilst some view science as the sustainabilty. This will involve the by at least 50% in the next 20 enemy of sustainability, it is only development and deployment years, a massive rise in by scientific research and

30 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:56 Page 33

technological innovation that we applied to the land. This will compared to existing technology, evaluate the likely impacts of can achieve such sustainability require improved varieties of and a Solar Farm has been built contemporary global change on whilst at the same time crops with not only higher yields to provide a test bed, producing the world’s flora. We examine preserving and enhancing the per unit land area, but also with readily accessible standardised how people respond to climate quality of life for all the citizens more efficient use of water and datasets of solar cell change. What are their fears? of the world. In Project Sunshine fertiliser, and less reliance on performance under everyday How do they respond to low we identify the problems of pesticides. There will not be a conditions. Bringing in new ideas carbon-generating technologies food and energy sustainability single solution – different crops generated in biology is also an and change their behaviour to and global change as being in different geographical important aspect of our work. reduce individual environmental inextricably linked, thus requiring locations under different The collection of light energy in impact? Alongside such large integrated approaches. Solutions management conditions will natural photosynthesis in plant scale international research we to the global problems of energy demand a range of different and microbes is highly efficient also carry out small scale but and food security will emerge solutions. In Project Sunshine and robust, and integration of equally significant projects with from the integration of we are engaged in research biomolecules into more immediate practical knowledge to examine complete aimed at fundamentally semiconductors to create hybrid application. eg developing new systems – approaches derived increasing the efficiency with devices is a particularly exciting material for living architecture, from the expertise of biologists, which cereal crops use light, innovation that has great such as foams which can be physicists, chemists, engineers, water and fertiliser by changing promise. Direct use of plants used to make green walls and and mathematicians, in the the basic biochemical pathway and microbes to produce biofuel roofs. context of the perspective of photosynthesis – this work and other useful feedstocks is offered by geographers, comprises a large consortium of another important area of ENGAGEMENT AND psychologists, sociologists and researchers in Europe, USA and activity. Microalgae are COMMUNICATION economists. The complete Asia. In other projects research particularly suitable for this Project Sunshine, along with system extends all the way from into the mechanisms that purpose. Here our process activities of a similar nature in physical, chemical and determine how the leaves of engineers are collaborating with other institutions in the UK and biochemical mechanisms at the plants respond to environmental biologists to develop commercial worldwide, provides a model for atomic and molecular levels to stress will provide the scale systems in which algal a new way of thinking about the processes, operations and knowledge needed to make cultures convert the CO2 and doing science, which is technologies embedded in our crops more resistant to the emitted from industrial steel focused on innovative pure socio-economic system. effects of extremes of weather. plants into bio-diesel, a science, but at the same time Furthermore, whilst investigation Similarly, another major aim is technology that could find geared toward providing practical of some specific aspects of food understanding the mechanisms widespread use and contribute solutions. A vital part of this or energy production might be of resistance of crop plants to to reducing CO2 emissions by process is engagement and distinct, the common underlying the invasive parasites that means of carbon capture. communication with individuals theme (of using science to drastically reduce crop yield in GLOBAL CHANGE and organisations from across provide sustainability) will serve many areas of the world. A areas of academia, business and to unite scientists, give extra further strand of research All of this work is set against the the public sector, and with the urgency to their work and be a concerns the sustainable and backdrop of significant studies general public. With this aim in key driver of the all-important efficient provision of nutrients by into global change. A major mind, in September we are process of public engagement. the soil, in particular activity is understanding the role hosting a major event, the Shine Project Sunshine thus provides a understanding the complex of the terrestrial biosphere in the 2011 International Conference, model for the route from basic interactions between plants and contemporary and future carbon which will be supported by the research to impact. Let us set soil microbes, knowledge that cycle, and especially the use of UK Research Councils and a out some examples of the could lead to an agriculture less satellite (and ground data) to number of commercial approaches being taken. dependent on fossil-fuel based constrain carbon cycle organisations including BP. inputs and with much lower AGRICULTURAL calculations by models. We also impact on the environment. do basic science on the IMPROVEMENT http://shine.sheffield.ac.uk/ SOLAR ENERGY interrelations of organisms and Modern agriculture, in essence, environment. How have converts oil into food, With the same theme of utilising ecosystems responded to past consuming vast quantities of solar energy more efficiently, episodes of global change, what water and producing a variety of physicists and chemists in effects do plants have on the pollutants. Replacing oil with Project Sunshine are developing Earth System, and what are the renewable energy would only new materials for the next impacts of contemporary solve part of the problem – we generation of photovoltaic solar climatic variation and also need to reduce cells. At the same time it is anthropogenic global change on consumption of water and important to establish exactly plants? Armed with this decrease the amount of fertiliser how efficient these will be understanding we are able to

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 31 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:56 Page 34

SET FOR BRITAIN 2011 On Monday 14th March 2011 Andrew Miller MP, Chairman of the Parliamentary and Scientific Committee, acted as host for SET for BRITAIN, the annual poster competition and exhibition for early-career researchers. The competition had attracted just under 300 entries in three separate sections, and the top sixty entrants in each section brought their posters to Westminster for display and judging in the House of Commons Terrace Marquee.

Overall Winner W Mrs Sue Wharton; Professor Brian Cox; Andrew Miller MP; Andrew Treharne, winner of the Westminster P Medal; Dr Stephen Benn, Royal Society of Chemistry; and the Lord Krebs. J

The competitors came from all over the United Kingdom and possible by donations from E.ON and the IET (Engineering); Plant A during the course of the day some 86 Parliamentarians from the Impact plc, International Agri-Technology Centre and Eli Lilly House of Commons and House of Lords visited the exhibition, (Biological and Biomedical Sciences): and BP, AgChemAccess and meeting the presenters and seeing at first hand the high quality Oxford Instruments (Physical Sciences). research being undertaken in British institutions. At the end of the final session the winners of the Gold Awards The posters in each section, which were of a very high standard, in each section competed for the Westminster Medal, donated by were judged by distinguished panels of experts from the Royal the SCI in memory of Dr Eric Wharton. The posters were judged by Academy of Engineering, the Institute of Physics, the Royal Society Lord Krebs and Andrew Miller MP, Chairmen respectively of the of Chemistry and the Society of Biology. House of Lords and House of Commons Science and Technology Select Committees, assisted by Professor Brian Cox; and the medal Thanks to generous support Gold, Silver and Bronze Awards of was awarded to the poster which they felt best communicated the cash prizes were made in each section, and the winner of each scientific concept involved. Gold Award also received a medal. These awards were made

32 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:57 Page 35

PRIZE-WINNERS 12.30pm - 2.30pm ENGINEERING SESSION Gold Award: £3,000 and Engineering Medal: Dr Tim Stevenson, University of Leeds MAGNETOELECTRICS; SPARKING NEW INTEREST INTO A PHENOMENA ONCE THOUGHT TO BE POLES APART

Silver Award: £2,000: Mr Manuel Martinello, School of Engineering and Physical Biological Sciences Group Peter Blezard, Plant Impact Plc; Dr Owen Wallace, Eli Lilly; Jay Stone (Silver Award); Dr Stephen Benn, Royal Society of Sciences, Heriot-Watt University Chemistry; Louisa Jeffery (Joint Bronze Award); Dr Robert Sansom (Joint Bronze Award); Andrew Miller MP; Talia Atkin 3D INFORMATION FROM ONE (Gold Award); Dr Mark Downs, Society of Biology; Paula Twinn, International Agri-Technology Centre Ltd. SINGLE 2D IMAGE

Bronze Award: £1,000: Mr James Popper, Honda Engineering Europe, Swindon COOKERSMART: FIRE DETECTION FOR THE KITCHEN

–––––––––––––––––––––––

3.30pm - 5.30pm BIOLOGICAL AND BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES Gold Award: £3,000 and Mendel Medal: Miss Talia Atkin, Neuroscience, Physiology and Winner of the Cavendish Medal, Dr Ian Chapman, with Chemistry Silver Award winner Dr Rachael Miles with Gary Pharmacology, University College Professor Ellen Williams, Chief Scientist, BP, and Dame Phillips, AgChemAccess; and Professor David Philips, Royal Jocelyn Bell Burnell, Institute of Physics. Society of Chemistry. London SCHIZOPHRENIA ASSOCIATED PROTEIN, DISC1, REGULATES INTRACELLULAR TRANSPORT OF MITOCHONDRIA IN NEURONS

Silver Award: £2,000: Miss Jay Stone, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London IDENTIFYING A NOVEL ROLE OF LBP IN EYE DISEASE

Dr Tony Whitehead, Institution of Engineering and Technology; the Rt Hon Lord Jenkin of Roding; Martin Carter, Head, Engineering Academy, E.ON; Dr Stephen Benn, Royal Society of Chemistry; Dr Tim Stevenson, University of Leeds (Gold Award); Andrew Miller MP; the Lord Browne of Madingley; Manuel Martinello, School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University (Silver Award); James Popper, Honda Engineering Europe, Swindon (Bronze Award).

Winner of the Roscoe Physics Bronze Award Medal, Andrew Treharne, winner Katerina Falk with with Professor Ellen Lynn Shepherd, Oxford Williams, Chief Scientist, Instruments; and Dame BP, and Professor David Jocelyn Bell Burnell, Phillips, Royal Society of Institute of Physics. Chemistry.

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 33 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:57 Page 36

Joint Bronze Awards: £500: Miss Louisa Jeffery, Immunity and Infection, University of Birmingham CAN VITAMIN D, THE SUNLIGHT- ACQUIRED VITAMIN, CONTROL INFLAMMATORY DISEASE? and Dr Robert Sansom, Department of Geology, University of Leicester STUDIES OF DECAY REVEAL BIAS IN FOSSIL INTERPRETATION

6.30pm - 8.30pm PHYSICAL SCIENCES (CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS) Chemistry Gold Award: £3,000 and Roscoe Medal: Mr Andrew Treharne, School of Chemistry, University of Southampton TOWARDS A CURE FOR RETINAL DEGENERATIVE DISEASES: DEVELOPING POLYMERIC SCAFFOLDS FOR IMPROVED CELLULAR ADHESION

Silver Award: £2,000: Dr Rachael Miles, Department of Chemistry, University of Bristol IMPROVING OUR UNDERSTANDING OF CLOUDS AND CLIMATE: MEASURING THE CONDENSATION RATE OF WATER AT AN AQUEOUS DROPLET SURFACE

Bronze Award: £1,000: Miss Anna Barnard, Department of Chemistry, University of York AN AMICABLE BREAK-UP: LIAISONS BETWEEN DEGRADABLE DENDRONS AND DNA

Physics Gold Award: £3,000 and Cavendish Medal: Dr Ian Chapman, Theory and Modelling, Culham Centre for Fusion Energy STABILITY OF TOKAMAK FUSION PLASMAS

Silver Award: £2,000: Dr Jesse Petersen, Department of Physics, Bronze Award: £1,000: Mrs WESTMINSTER MEDAL IN MEMORY OF DR ERIC WHARTON University of Oxford Katerina Falk, Department of (OVERALL WINNER): ULTRAFAST MOVIES OF Physics, University of Oxford Mr Andrew Treharne, School of Chemistry, University of Southampton ELECTRONIC STRUCTURE IN INFERRING THE EQUATION OF TOWARDS A CURE FOR RETINAL DEGENERATIVE DISEASES: COMPLEX MATERIALS STATE OF SHOCKED LIQUID DEVELOPING POLYMERIC SCAFFOLDS FOR IMPROVED CELLULAR DEUTERIUM ADHESION

34 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:57 Page 37

BOOK REVIEW Power Politics: Political Encounters in Industry and Engineering By Francis Tombs Published by I.B.Taurus & Co.Ltd 2011

We have all come to rely on electricity being available on His recommendation was to implement a Bill which proposed demand and in an ideal world one would like to think that the the formation of an Electricity Corporation with a potential division Government had a duty to ensure the country enjoyed a secure into five autonomous and competing divisions each large enough and continuous supply of electricity, a duty second only to the to finance and build large power stations. But apparently the security of the state. In this entertaining new book Lord Tombs Conservative Government of 1979 found it politically impossible to explains how, on the contrary, political decisions by successive implement this proposal which had been favoured by the previous governments since the war “have resulted in a situation where the administration, and they chose a different route for privatisation, reliability of electricity supply throughout the UK will be in serious one consequence of which has been that a number of our jeopardy for many years to come”. Lord Tombs is particularly well electricity utilities have passed into foreign ownership. qualified to make such a judgment. The advent of cheap gas was probably a mixed blessing. Gas Born in Walsall he left school at 15 and started work at GEC in fired power stations are quick and cheap to build but we have very Birmingham. After gaining his qualifications in electrical engineering, little gas storage capacity to cover interruptions in supply and the followed by a degree in economics and accountancy and a reliance on one fuel (which we now have to import) has led to a distinguished career in industry he eventually became Chairman of decline in our traditional industries building turbo–generators and the South of Scotland Electricity Board, the larger of the two combustion plant, which we will have to buy abroad in future. electricity supply boards in Scotland, and later became Chairman of Lord Tombs is also critical of the Labour Government’s “love the Electricity Council. affair” with wind power which he describes as expensive to build His advice was then sought (but seldom followed) by a and their potential value has been greatly exaggerated. He quotes succession of energy ministers who sought to re-organise the the Government’s estimate of the subsidy required by wind power, industry by apparently relying on political dogma (sometimes £30 billion by year 2020 (“a stealth tax in all but name”) and says nationalisation, sometimes privatisation) rather than using technical it is a sum more than sufficient to meet the cost of replacing the knowledge and experience. nuclear power stations.

He now sits as a Cross Bench Peer in the House of Lords. He sees the “visceral opposition of the Labour Government to nuclear power and the accompanying obsession with wind power” The first chapter is an account of how the re-organisation of the as a threat to our future supplies, and for the solution he says “we electrical supply industry was mis-handled after the war. Before the sorely need a technically competent and independent body capable war the construction of the National Grid in the 1920s and ‘30s, of long-term strategic planning for a national electricity supply”. which allowed for the first time the nation-wide transmission of electricity, had been a major technical achievement which replaced This chapter should be essential reading for all interested in our the previous system of expensive and inefficient local generation electricity supply, especially the young, to explain why we are in the and distribution. present situation and what to avoid in the future.

In 1947 the Government nationalised the industry under the The political horizon is too short for an industry which has to control of the British Electricity Authority. The subsequent plan for 30 years ahead, and at the end of this book the reader is Conservative government followed the recommendations of the left with the clear conviction that planning the national electrical Herbert Committee of 1957 to separate generation (in England and supply system is best guided by engineers. Wales) from distribution and sales. Lord Tombs describes this as an “odd” decision which was “entirely political, with little or no thought Robert Freer for the practical managerial consequences”.

Thus was created the Central Electricity Generating Board, which had a monopoly of generation until privatisation in 1988, and 12 local boards responsible for the separate job of distribution and sales. Lord Tombs identifies one consequence of this inefficient arrangement in that the CEGB promoted the construction of “gold plated” power stations in this country which the contractors found were not competitive for overseas customers.

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 35 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:57 Page 38

AN EVEN BIGGER BANG IN 2011 Around 29,000 people flocked to the UK’s largest single celebration of science, technology, engineering and mathematics for young people at London’s ExCeL Centre from 10-12 March. The Big Bang UK Young Scientists & Engineers Fair 2011 brought together 150 different organisations with the shared aim of inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers, and represented an unparalleled partnership between Government, education, industry and the wider science and engineering communities. Demonstrating the Government’s support for the programme, Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, Vince Cable, was among a number of constituency MPs and senior civil servants to visit The Fair.

Mr Cable said: “The Big Bang support The Big Bang as an is a terrific example of what can effective and exciting way of be achieved through the inspiring the scientists and collaborative efforts of the STEM engineers of tomorrow.” community. It is heartening to see so many businesses and A SERIOUS MESSAGE organisations, from the UK and BEHIND A SERIOUSLY from right across the world, FUN DAY OUT coming together to encourage Behind the fun of The Fair, our future scientists and The Big Bang has a vital mission engineers. We are proud to to promote STEM careers to

36 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:57 Page 39

young people and address change and the management of people, their parents and related skills gaps across the UK. essential natural resources, and teachers. Big Bang Regional Fairs Although research shows that dealing with the threats to our take place around the country in parents would like their children world from diseases, floods, the summer and provide an to go into science and volcanoes and earthquakes. opportunity for more young engineering careers, lack of That’s why this competition is so people to experience close to knowledge about the diverse important – it inspires the home the excitement and and rewarding jobs available in scientists and engineers of opportunities available through these areas stops them from tomorrow and is a great science, technology, engineering encouraging their children to example of the exceptional and maths, and ongoing pursue these routes. The Big young talent we have in the UK.” communication using traditional Bang explodes outdated and new media, including Hannah Eastwood from perceptions by bringing the Facebook and Twitter, means Loreto College in Coleraine was reality of science and that more young people than awarded UK Young Scientist of engineering careers to life. ever can feel part of it. the Year and is the first girl to be “The Big Bang exists to give awarded a senior title in the Some comments from those been the biggest and best yet. young people and their parents Competition. Her project who visited The Fair: The Fair is all about inspiring a better understanding of how explores how chromium can be young people to consider a “The Big Bang was just fun and inspiring science removed from drinking water in career in science or engineering, absolutely outstanding, and engineering can be,” said order to purify tap water and and it works. Not only do the fantastic…words can’t explain”. Professor Brian Cox OBE reclaim it for the steel industry young people who visit have a A pupil from Ferry Lane where it is a valuable resource. NATIONAL SCIENCE & great time but our early Primary School, Tottenham, ENGINEERING Andrew Cowan from Sutton evaluation of the 2011 event London Grammar School for Boys is the backs the results we found last COMPETITION “There are really big stands only competitor to have won a year, that young people who from a lot of big, famous The Fair plays host to the prize in each age category attend the Fair are more likely to companies that we wouldn’t finals of the National Science & across three years of the choose a career that will require normally get a chance to see.” Engineering Competition, which Competition. Following his a qualification in science, Edward Breakenridge, Student this year saw several hundred previous successes in the Junior technology, engineering or Teacher, Sydenham School, young people compete for a and Intermediate categories, this maths and view careers in London. range of prizes, including the UK year Andrew was awarded the science and engineering more Young Scientist and UK Young accolade of UK Young Engineer positively as a result of their visit. The Big Bang 2012 will take Engineer of the Year. The of the Year for his Search and Without a doubt, The Big Bang is place from 15-17 March at the Awards Ceremony was Rescue Robot. winning hearts and changing NEC in Birmingham and presented by Professor Brian minds!” promises to be bigger again. To Paul Jackson, Chief Executive Cox and Dr Kate Bellingham, find out more about The Big of EngineeringUK, said: “The Big The Big Bang is much more who were among an impressive Bang and how to take part in a Bang goes from strength to than a one-off event; it’s a year- list of celebrity Competition Fair near you go to strength and its third year has round conversation with young judges, including Professor Jim www.thebigbangfair.co.uk Al-Khalili, Professor Colin Blakemore, Professor Marcus du Sautoy, Vivienne Parry, Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock, Dr Chris Elliot and Rear Admiral Al Rymer.

The UK Young Scientist and UK Young Engineer of the Year received their prizes from Government Chief Scientific Adviser Sir John Beddington.

He said: “The next generation of scientists and engineers will play a fundamental role in tackling the global challenges we face in the 21st century. These include the issues of climate

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 37 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:57 Page 40

CAN THE ECONOMY SURVIVE WITHOUT A NATIONAL MEASUREMENT SYSTEM? Meeting of the Parliamentary and Scientific Committee on Tuesday 15th February 2011 THE VALUE OF THE NATIONAL MEASUREMENT SYSTEM TO THE ECONOMY

All our science and MEASUREMENT IN For many of us a visit to a technology depends upon the INNOVATION hospital may not be desirable, largely unknown work of but knowing that the treatment Measurement Scientists. These It is generally acknowledged has been appropriately scientists, known as metrologists, that the economic recovery will measured throughout its define scientific measurement emerge from innovative and development, trials and finally its and standards that other forward-thinking businesses in delivery to the patient is vital to scientists then rely on to the UK. New measurement confidence in its application and compare their findings with techniques and technologies effectiveness. The National research done elsewhere or at a stimulate and support innovation Measurement System directly different time. Provision of this in products, processes and works with hospitals, Dr Brian R Bowsher measurement capability is part services. underpinning over 200,000 Managing Director of the National of the technical infrastructure radiation treatments each year Physical Laboratory, the UK’s Today measurement plays a National Measurement Institute that underpins the UK’s science, for cancer diagnosis and fundamental part in the engineering and technology treatment. Indeed, the work Measurement has helped innovation process. To develop landscape for government, undertaken by the National define societies, governments new products and processes, industry, and academia. Physical Laboratory (NPL) has and progress since the dawn companies need to measure been shown in international of civilisation. Length, area, Standards help everyone to quantity, quality and comparisons to provide the volume, weight and time all talk in the same language when performance. To trade most accurate measurements, had to be quantified and something is being measured, a successfully, companies must resulting in the most accurate systematised when dividing dictionary explains the meaning have a regulatory framework doses of radiation, and the up goods or land, trading, of a word and how to spell it; in based upon measurement saving of hundreds of lives. building and keeping records. a sense, we do the same for confidence, which ensures global One of the earliest measurement. markets are fair and open by Measurement needs are ever eliminating unnecessary barriers changing. Measurement measurement devices was the Measurement underpins the to trade. Supporting this is an scientists are at the forefront of cubit, fundamental to building welfare of a modern society and established infrastructure of developing technologies that will the pyramids. Our own Magna touches almost every part of traceable measurement linked drive future growth such as low Carta in 1215, set out some daily life. It ensures consistency seamlessly to the national carbon, nano and quantum early rules for measurement: of international time standards standards maintained on behalf technologies. Indeed, work at “there is to be one measure so we can communicate reliably of the UK. NPL on graphene was cited in of wine and ale and corn and navigate accurately support of this year’s Nobel within the realm, namely the throughout the world; ensures In some industries the need Prize for Physics. Measurement London quarter, and one safety and efficacy of healthcare for accurate measurement is also plays a vital role in ensuring breadth of cloth and it is to be diagnostics and treatments; critical. Companies manufacturing that standards and legislation are the same with weights”. quantifies emissions of precision engines work to tight based upon robust yet practical Eventually such local laws and greenhouse gases to help specifications in which parts must measurement practices. standards gave way to an understand and mitigate climate be measured for size, material internationally agreed system change; and measures the composition and performance to At the heart of the of units in 1875 and it is this composition, energy value and very accurate levels. Rolls-Royce, measurement infrastructure system that the National quantity of gas piped to our for example, employs over there are multi-disciplinary Measurement System upholds homes, and fuel to our vehicles. 200,000 measuring devices on teams of skilled scientists, for the UK. their production lines. engineers, mathematicians and

38 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:57 Page 41

support staff. The UK services or reference materials, Royal Society, to its first Director, reviewed publications and measurement system attracts as well as developing new Sir Richard Glazebrook, to “bring citations doubling since 2004. talent from across the world and measurement capabilities in scientific knowledge to bear In 2010 NPL celebrated its nurtures this talent to be the support of strategic national practically upon our everyday 110th anniversary, which very best – many of these priorities and the next industrial and commercial life, to provided the opportunity to look scientists are world leaders in generation of primary break down the barrier between back and reflect on some of our their field. The National measurement standards. theory and practice and to effect achievements. NPL has a rich Measurement System invests in Measurement scientists also a union between science and heritage delivering some knowledge transfer to ensure represent the UK on the commerce”. That remains as outstanding contributions to the that their know-how is shared international measurement true today as it was then. prosperity of the UK, including within the UK for economic and stage, ensuring that NPL’s role beyond the work the invention of radar, support social benefit. measurement standards and for the National Measurement to the ‘bouncing bombs’ used legislative requirements are The National Measurement System is to take the knowledge in the Second World War, Alan legal, accurate and fair to the System is the collective gained and provide companies Turing’s pioneering work on the buyer and seller. (NPL scientists infrastructure of national with access to world-leading first automatic computing support approximately 750 facilities, expertise, knowledge, support and technical expertise, engine, Donald Davies’ national and international science, research and legal inspiring the absolute development of packet- committees and working framework in the metrology confidence required to realise switching that provided the groups). field. Together these elements competitive advantage from new basis of the internet, and Louis combine to provide traceable The balance and content of materials, techniques and Essen’s work on the first atomic measurement, new these programmes is identified technologies; as well as clock. measurement standards and through extensive consultation supporting organisations and However, it is vital that, for techniques and the regulatory with input from a wide range of services in a wide range of social NPL to continue to provide the system to control trade, based stakeholders and overseen by applications – helping to save maximum impact to the on defined quantities. Equally, independent working groups, lives, protect the environment prosperity of the UK and quality they provide a national asset with members from industry, and enable citizens to feel safe of life of its citizens, we do not base of skills and knowledge government and academia, that and secure. Support in areas rest on our laurels. that is essential to developing ensure they remain fit for such as the development of and nurturing innovation in purpose. advanced medical treatments FUTURE CHALLENGES products and services. and environmental monitoring The challenges for NATIONAL PHYSICAL helps secure a better quality of Thousands of businesses measurement in the future are LABORATORY life for all. Our approach is each year gain measurement many and far reaching, but it The National Physical simple – all that we know we know-how and support through will continue to play an Laboratory (NPL) is the UK’s transfer – we do not retain our the National Measurement important role in our digital National Measurement Institute knowledge for knowledge’s sake. System. In a survey of 1,200 economy. Already we are close and sits at the heart of the Each year we support UK companies who had been to new methodologies for National Measurement System industry by providing a wide supported by NPL, annual measurement of time that will as the main provider of the range of measurement services profitability gains of circa £700m help in the drive to make measurement research and consultancy to over 2,000 were achieved in one year satellite navigation even more programmes and infrastructure. industry customers. through product and process accurate than it is today. We are NPL is one of the UK's leading innovation, and improved NPL has been managed working closely with many science and research facilities measurement. since 1995 on behalf of the biotechnology companies to and a world-leading centre of It is critical to ensure that Department for Business discover whether better excellence in developing and investment in measurement Innovation and Skills through a measurement techniques can applying the most accurate delivers real economic and government-owned contractor- reduce the time to market for standards, science and social impact. This is particularly operated arrangement by Serco. new drugs. Mathematical technology available. We occupy the case when the investment This model has worked very modelling is becoming key in a unique position sitting at the involves public money. The well, bringing to bear the best areas ranging from predicting intersection between scientific National Measurement System practices of the private sector climate change to under- discovery and real world invests approximately £60m per whilst sustaining and enhancing standing how aircraft engines application, at the point where year across a portfolio of the science outputs. Thus, will react in adverse conditions, science is translated into programmes whose role it is to overheads have been reduced and the measurement and solutions – a place we have respond to well-defined public, by 30%, staff utilisation has measurement assumptions been proud to occupy for over legislative or industrial needs, increased by 10%, and third- behind these models need to 110 years. undertaking R&D to uphold and party work has tripled since be accurate if they are to improve national standards, When NPL was established in 2004 (now accounting for over provide us with credible providing traceability for 1900, Lord Rayleigh expressed one-third of the lab’s revenue); information that we can act on accredited measurement its charter, on behalf of the with the number of peer- with confidence.

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 39 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:57 Page 42

One of the most significant confidence in climate data. the temperature in the centre of named in his honour: challenges lies in the future of an explosion designed to There is rarely an average “When you can measure energy generation and the use destroy everything in its path, week at NPL. Recently we have what you are speaking about of low carbon technology. NPL is and assessing the performance been involved in developing an and express it in numbers you looking to establish a Centre for of wet suits. intelligent harvesting machine know something about it; but Carbon Measurement dedicated that knows when cauliflowers But to sum up the importance when you cannot express it in to this field – providing the are ripe for the picking, using the of measurement to our economy, numbers your knowledge is of a measurement infrastructure high frequency sound of I draw upon a quote from the meagre and unsatisfactory kind.” required to access low carbon crunching biscuits as a guide to British scientist, Lord Kelvin, who technologies, support financial Fine words indeed! customer satisfaction, measuring developed the temperature scale carbon trading and underpin

CAN THE ECONOMY SURVIVE WITHOUT A NATIONAL MEASUREMENT SYSTEM? DEPENDENCE OF INDUSTRY ON THE NMS FOR MANUFACTURE AND INNOVATION Dr Roger Digby Airbus currently employs extensive use of composite agglomerate and demand more FIMMM CEng FREng 52,500 around the world, materials and lightweight metals. research. Even large structures including France, Germany, such as wings start with tight This required the need to Head of Materials and Processes Spain, the UK, North America, tolerance, and especially so with cost out the production process Integration (Aircraft Programmes), China, India, Japan and Russia of flushness at the surface which is and product development time Airbus whom 7772 are in the UK. It essential to reduce friction. in advance, in order to develop has a global network of over the airframe, combined with The National Measurement 323 customers and 341 The focus presented here is tests for material properties, with System provides for following operators, who delivered 510 that of an industrialist with an results needed before it was key contributions essential for aircraft and sold 644 in 2010. In international perspective. It built in order to provide a full Airbus. These include robust, addition 10,060 aircraft have ranges initially from aircraft analysis prior to construction. traceable standards which are been ordered by 323 constructed of wood and linen essential for manufacturing; customers. It supports 6,194 Indeed, the purpose of structures, evolving to metallic cross-sector best practice and aircraft in service with 338 testing the 32 metre wing in the frames and aluminium. Indeed, knowledge transfer; operators. test frame (as demonstrated on Concorde is the only aircraft manufacturing optimisation and video at the meeting) is to ever built and then withdrawn The main driver for change in product improvement; and prove that it will take up to 6m that was not superseded by the early 70’s was Freddie Laker, innovative metrology for product bending, with the prior analysis something better. While initially followed by the need for eco- improvement and new concept supported by the subsequent technically driven, aircraft efficiency, new competitors, development. tests. With better analysis fewer manufacture from the 1970s safety, regulation and REACH. expensive and time consuming Finally, this raises the was commercially driven and This resulted in demand for the tests will therefore be required. following key questions requiring designed to reduce operational lowest product cost, a The aircraft wing failed where a response; Can Airbus survive costs. Environmental impact minimised recurring cost and and how it was predicted from without a UK NMS? Can Airbus from cradle to grave then the need to maximise the the prior analysis. Hence the in the UK survive without a UK became more of an impact, effectiveness of the non- procedure can be limited to a NMS? Can the UK supply chain though surprisingly, not recurring cost in order to reduce single test if the analysis is for Airbus remain competitive exceeding two per cent of the cycle time and the product accurate. without a UK NMS? Can UK overall total. The technology development cycle. This led to Industry be competitive in the required is driven by 3 key demands for the highest product Where will we be beyond Global arena without an factors: Regulation and performance and manufacturing 2020? Carbon nanotube effective NMS? Legislation, Environment, and capability regardless of material reinforcements that are under the Airworthiness Authorities. for optimum weight, resulting in development currently tend to

40 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:57 Page 43

CAN THE ECONOMY SURVIVE WITHOUT A NATIONAL MEASUREMENT SYSTEM? UK LEADERSHIP IN NEW TECHNOLOGIES THROUGH THE NATIONAL MEASUREMENT SYSTEM

With headquarters in THE ROLE OF Measurement at the Teddington, South West London, MEASUREMENT technology frontiers enables and the LGC Group employs ca drives innovation in advanced Advanced measurement 1,400 staff in 29 laboratories and production and instrumentation capabilities are essential to centres globally. Privatised in – after all, ‘one can manufacture innovation in every economic 1996 and now majority-owned only what one can measure’. area and at every stage of the by funds managed by innovation process. Advanced However, there are three Bridgepoint, LGC was founded tools and measurements are commonly accepted areas almost 170 years ago as the required to innovate – to design where innovation is being held Laboratory of the Government and incorporate new or better back: Chemist – a statutory function Dr Julian H Braybrook, Director features into next generation of Strategy, Measurement maintained by LGC today. • inadequate accuracy Research, LGC products or processes necessary on behalf of David Richardson, BACKGROUND for the UK to compete • a lack of accurate sensors Chief Executive, LGC effectively and stay ahead in the The Coalition Government • a lack of standards, global marketplace. In this way, has set out its agenda with benchmarks, metrics and LGC (www.lgc.co.uk) is an measurement plays an strong, sustainable and protocols. international science-based important role in avoiding innovation-oriented balanced company and market leader in market failure for innovative new CHEMICAL AND growth a key contributor. analytical, forensic and products. Reliable measurement: BIOANALYTICAL Innovation is pervasive and not diagnostic services and MEASUREMENTS sector-specific, being spread • facilitates fair trade through reference standards. LGC across more than 20 ‘traditional’ harmonised standards and Issues associated with operates in a variety of markets or ‘high-technology’ industries. It internationally physical measurement have which underpin the safety, is however skewed, with around been addressed for the best health and security of the public • underpins regulation through 10% of highly innovative firms part of 50 years by the UK and the regulation of industry, policy advice and accounting for almost 40% of measurement system, but only for both public and private measurement references for innovation investment. within the last 25 years have the sector clients. Directives, conformity Innovation is shaped by the measurement issues associated assessment, and verification, LGC operates internationally knowledge creation and with the chemical sciences been such that through four divisions – LGC distribution system, the addressed in a similar fashion. Forensics, LGC Genomics, LGC environment for business • parts manufactured in one The issues of biological Standards and LGC Science & investment, public sector country fit into machines in measurement still remain in Technology. The latter includes innovation, and the education another country their relative infancy. UK leadership in these areas is specialist laboratories delivering and skills system. Within the • products tested and approved acknowledged worldwide, but is contracts for the Department for knowledge creation and in one country can be sold in under threat from measurement Business, Innovation and Skills distribution system lies another country, without initiatives in the US and several (BIS) and supports LGC's measurement science and further technical inspection designated role as the UK's technology – an infrastructure of of the new entrant developing National Measurement Institute measurement standards, • consumer protection is countries, such as Korea and for chemical and bioanalytical dissemination of units, and maintained. China. measurement. science-based policy advice.

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 41 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:57 Page 44

LGC delivers the designated target preparation mean that potential health risk associated trials for novel prospective UK national measurement NGS technologies have mostly with any unexpected clinical cancer therapies within the UK, institute (NMI) role for chemical been applied to qualitative effects arising from the Europe and the US. and bioanalytical measurement. studies. Recently, however, the unknowing use of counterfeit Its model in the private sector technology is being applied to medicines. Traditional detection NANOTECHNOLOGIES differentiates itself from the quantitative profiling, where and discrimination of counterfeit The unique mechanical, other UK NMIs. As the first maintenance of accurate drugs rely on visual examination thermal and catalytic properties management buy-out (MBO) of representation of starting and physical and chemical that materials develop when a public sector research material becomes even more analysis of goods and packaging, structured at the nanoscale has establishment (PSRE) from critical. but counterfeiting is becoming led to nanomaterials being Central Government, internal more sophisticated. The UK is helping set the incorporated into more than investment and acquisition has lead to establish a measurement The UK has taken the lead in 800 commercial products that increased LGC’s public and capability, within national developing new approaches impact on every aspect of private sector activities measurement institutes based on the measurement of human life. The UK is leading worldwide. Its fundamental worldwide, to identify small, naturally occurring isotopic standardisation initiatives in approach is centred on: requirements for NGS variations in compounds present nanotechnology, both in terms • leading accurate and traceable technologies and initiate in the product and packaging of setting an understanding of measurement in relevant development of a framework for and have demonstrated the vocabulary and characterisation disciplines for the UK standardisation. potential for these high accuracy methodologies, but increasingly mass spectrometry techniques in nanotoxicology as a result of • acting as a solution point for CLINICAL MEDICINE to provide the low level of the inconsistent behaviours Government, where displayed by nanoparticles in Cholesterol is a fatty measurement uncertainties measurement makes a traditional screening models. substance which is found in the required for legal prosecution difference Employing UK expertise in in blood and which plays an purposes. vitro toxicology assays, a label- • acting as a provider of value to essential role in how every cell FOOD free, real time, cell electronic UK industry, especially where it in the body works. However, too SUPPLEMENTATION sensing system has been creates innovation. much cholesterol in the blood validated. Such continual cell can increase your risk of heart Providing a sound basis for Drawing on its strapline of analysis has provided problems. The accurate measuring a vital element in the ‘science for a safer world’, the quantitative information about measurement of small diet – with long-term benefits following examples highlight the rates and mechanisms of molecules in clinical samples is for public health – could be where LGC has been providing toxicity which can be missed essential for the safe and enormous. Selenium is known its leading measurement using traditional assays. expertise on behalf of the UK efficacious diagnosis/treatment to have important functions in national measurement system of patients. In the case of key enzymes and recent studies REGENERATIVE (NMS) to bring value to existing cholesterol measurement, a suggest that selenium MEDICINES and emerging chemical and 10% error in its determination supplementation can help Tissue engineering uses cells, bioanalytical technologies and means 13% of the population protect against cancer, HIV and engineering and materials to industries – especially early do not receive the treatment other diseases. However, manufacture functional support at the small and they should and 20% receive selenium is believed to be replacement tissues for clinical medium enterprise (SME) level treatment unnecessarily. The UK deficient within the UK diet due application. Regulation is critical to maximise opportunity for is leading traceable purity and to our consumption of European for product quality, safety and innovation. mass spectrometry methods to wheat. It is important however assign reference values to a for the selenium to be present development. However, the GENOMIC MEDICINE number of reference materials in the right chemical novel aspects that make the intended for the clinical sector. form/species. The UK has technology so promising also DNA sequencing has long helped establish accurate make regulatory compliance been the ‘gold standard’ method PHARMACEUTICALS measurement approaches for more of a challenge. New for analysing regions of the product development and The WHO estimates that detecting the different forms of genome, but it is prohibitively evaluation using high throughput counterfeit drugs, which now inorganic and organic selenium expensive and laborious. ‘Next- cell imaging capability is being account for 10% of the global for selenium supplementation generation’ sequencing (NGS) used to overcome the market, cost the pharmaceutical through the diet. technologies offer orders of measurement difficulties industry US$46 billion annually. magnitude increases in Additionally, this work associated with a more For the consumer, it is the throughput and decreases in developed the analytical basis representative 3D (rather than missed health benefits costs. However, despite their for the characterisation of traditional 2D) test environment associated with any uncertainty potential and rapid uptake organo-selenium compounds for cell-based testing. The over the likely effectiveness of across multiple disciplines, that, for the first time, enable approach of using fluorescent the medicine or, indeed, the inconsistencies associated with pre-clinical and human clinical probe technologies to visualise

42 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 cells within 3D systems fills the CONCLUDING REMARKS uniformity of measurements and developing countries and in the technology gap. their traceability to the US. This is particularly strong in The international picture for International System of Units the ‘newer’ bio-analytical areas. The UK’s pivotal role in the measurement science has never (SI). preparation of the first been healthier. UK leadership is So whilst the UK currently documentary publicly available reflected in its Chair roles for It is clear from the rapid ‘punches well above its weight’, specifications (PAS) for the cell- three (inorganic, bio-analysis and increase in attendance of the wealth of measurement based therapeutic industry has gas) of the six consultative measurement scientists at the challenges means European and been supported by leading committees, and in its founding annual meeting of BIPM, international partnerships are measurement capability in single role in a fourth, of the Bureau measurement science is being becoming ever more important cell and 3D stem cell International de Poids et seen as underpinning economic to ensure differentiated, but bioprocessing. Mesures (BIPM). This prosperity globally and is being complementary, measurement organisation ensures world-wide invested in substantially in the offerings between NMIs.

100 YEARS OF NUCLEAR PHYSICS

Significant evidence for the which led to the famous quote technologies that are beneficial. Rutherford Model of the atom from Ernest Rutherford that “It X-rays were discovered before came from experiments directed was quite the most incredible Rutherford’s experiments but his by Rutherford and conducted by event that has ever happened to description of the nucleus Hans Geiger and Ernest me in my life. It was almost as shows how electrons moving Marsden. The most famous of incredible as if you fired a 15- between energy states, or these experiments is the alpha inch shell at a piece of tissue different orbital sizes and scattering experiment where paper and it came back and hit shapes, releases the energy. In alpha particles (helium nuclei) you.” To explain these results the nucleus itself the emission were fired at thin foils of various Rutherford proposed that the of alpha particles (helium nuclei metals, including gold. Geiger electrons must be orbiting with two protons and two John Roberts Dalton Nuclear Institute and Marsden were instructed to around a central nucleus which neutrons), beta particles The University of Manchester use a scintillator to observe the contains most of the mass and (electrons) or gamma rays is the scattering of the alpha particles is positively charged. This is still basis of many everyday Today the model of an atom at various angles around the the basis of our understanding technologies such as smoke with electrons orbiting a central target. If the prevailing model of of the nucleus. For hydrogen detectors and the specialist nucleus consisting of protons the atom (Thomson’s plum 99.9% of the mass of the atom equipment used for medical and neutrons is familiar to many pudding model with negatively in in the nucleus and the sole diagnostics techniques, for of us and is taught as part of the charged electrons dispersed electron orbits at a distance example PET (Positron Emission GCSE science curriculum. One through a central positively equivalent to 100,000 times the Tomography) Scanners. hundred years ago our charged mass) was correct then diameter of the sole proton. Radiation is also used in understanding of the atom was some alpha particles, which are medicine as a therapy in Due to this remarkable very limited. Based on positively charged, would be procedures such as cancer insight Rutherford is known as experiments conducted at The deviated slightly off their incident treatment. the Father of Nuclear Physics University of Manchester, Ernest line. and our understanding of the Another way we have Rutherford announced his Slightly deviated alpha nucleus, developed from these learned to harness the energy theory of orbiting electrons and particles were duly observed but initial experiments, over the last within the nucleus is to provide a central nucleus at the March then Rutherford instructed 100 years has led to some electricity through nuclear fission 1911 meeting of the Marsden to look for any back spectacular achievements. and in the future through Manchester Literary and scattering, ie alpha particles Understanding the nucleus nuclear fusion. The UK is Philosophical Society and then bouncing backwards. Marsden allows us to understand currently undergoing a nuclear published a paper in the May observed a small percentage phenomena such as radiation renaissance with new reactors edition of the Philosophical being scattered backwards, and nuclear fission and develop due to come online before the Magazine.

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 43 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:57 Page 46

end of this decade. This is considering renewing their much more detailed model of continuing to probe the nucleus replicated throughout the world. nuclear reactor fleet or building the nucleus but the essence of and attempting to reveal more For example, the United States is reactors for the first time in their the Rutherford model with a of its secrets. Although the UK preparing to build its first reactor history. New detector technology nucleus and orbiting electrons is no longer has a nuclear since the 1970s; the United is also helping us decommission still at its core. If he could visit structure research accelerator, its Arab Emirates have ordered our existing fleet of nuclear The University of Manchester nuclear physicists are still reactors from Korea; Vietnam reactors in a safe, efficient and today he would still see a advancing this fundamental has two reactors on order from cost effective manner. thriving School of Physics and science at international facilities Russia and many other countries Astronomy, and a dedicated in France, Switzerland, Finland, After 100 years of nuclear around the world are either team of nuclear physicists Germany and the United States. physics research we have a

SHALE GAS – A HOME-GROWN SOURCE OF ENERGY AND FUEL

shale gas, which is about half of fracking will not release much yet. However, as the BGS study Britain’s estimated reserves of gas. The shale itself is very rich suggests, there might be shale more ‘conventional’ natural gas. in organic matter from gas over wide areas of Britain deposition in ancient seas and just waiting to be drilled. There is so much interest in rivers, but the gas which is shale gas that the last few years The millstone grit is perhaps generated from the organic have been known as the ‘dash the best prospect. The millstone matter, can’t move easily in the for gas’. In the United States grit itself – famous for the rock because it is so fine grained where much of the technology millstones of the Peak District – and impermeable. So fracking is for shale gas extraction was is a sandstone, but between the generally essential. developed, shale gas production layers of sandstone are layers of Professor Mike Stephenson has been a great success story. The shale gas business is not shale. One of these shale layers Head of Energy In 1996, shale gas wells in the so well-developed in Britain. has been targeted by Cuadrilla. British Geological Survey Mike Stephenson publishes with the permission US produced 0.3 TCF – only There is only one shale gas well Another area is the Jurassic of the Director of the BGS (NERC) 1.6% of US gas production; but – near Blackpool – drilled by the shale of the Weald and Wessex Shale – usually thought of by by 2006 production had more American company Cuadrilla in the south of England. The geologists as a rather boring, than tripled to 1.1 TCF per year, and there is no gas production BGS estimates that the onshore uninteresting rock – might be 5.9% of US gas production. One an important source of recent study has suggested that methane gas for power and natural gas will provide 40% of fuel in Britain into the future. America's energy needs in the future, from 20% today, thanks Shale is the most common in part to abundant shale gas. sedimentary rock, and Britain Many people welcome shale has a lot of it – in northern gas particularly because of the England, the Midlands, Wales increasing security of supply it and southern England. It’s a soft brings, helping to make the US rock so often isn’t seen at the independent of energy surface, though it underlies producers in Russia and the much of the country. The British Middle East. Geological Survey (BGS) has just finished an assessment of The key to getting the gas the amount of shale gas that out is hydraulic fracturing (also might be present in these areas called ‘fracking’ or ‘fraccing’). and has come up with some This technique, developed in the impressive figures1. The shale of US, involves pumping high the millstone grit rock sequence pressure water (or nitrogen) into alone, for example, may contain the shale to crack it and release 4.7 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of the gas. A simple well without Distribution of millstone grit in Britain

44 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:57 Page 47

part of the Wessex Basin alone Britain and Europe. Fracking has will be very dirty and need allowing them some could yield up to 30 billion cubic recently had a bad press in the special treatment in tanks before independence from Russian gas, feet (BCF) of shale gas. The very United States and there is no it can be released into rivers or and a way of generating ancient Cambrian-age shale denying that drilling for shale gas the sea. electricity in a slightly cleaner under the Midlands might yield is an energy-hungry business. way than burning coal. Britain At present the price of gas another 300 BCF. Even the hard Water for fracking is needed in has cheap gas from Qatar and means that shale gas is only slates of parts of Wales and large quantities and there is also Norway, but if Britain’s shale gas economic in the US. But for south west England might have the problem of disposing of resource is as big as the BGS political reasons countries like gas in them. water that flows back to the well thinks, it will be hard to ignore. Poland have their eye on shale and the drilling rig after the But commercialisation of gas as a possible secure source 1 https://www.og.decc. fracking is finished. This water shale gas may not be so easy in gov.uk/upstream/licensing/shalegas.pdf

THE MUSICAL BRAIN: IMPLICATIONS FOR EDUCATION AND BEYOND

lives, acknowledging its role in explained that the brain changes suspects that not all facets will culture and bonding. He cites throughout life in response to require formal musical training. the example of nursery rhymes, experiences and learning and From Dr Scott’s presentation which exist in all cultures, and that music can be considered a then, one could conclude that carry a message about super skill. Unpicking this super musicality in some form can be attempting something, failing skill she stated that music found in a large proportion of and trying again – a primal involves a number of different individuals, including those who message that is important to elements including the ability to have not received music training communicate to children. He plan and execute complex and that as well as education also suggests that certain movement sequences as well providing an opportunity to features of music such as as integrating information across create music; it should consider Dr Ellie Dommett Department of Life Sciences, inflection and gesture are critical the senses as one reads visual teaching how to listen to music. The Open University to higher order communication. symbols and uses them to Finally Prof Susan Hallam He explained how music can be create a movement. She from the Institute of Education beneficial to learning, citing the provided evidence detailing how The APPG on Scientific spoke about the wider impact example of singing being used the brains of musicians differ, Research in Learning and of music. She began with a to assist learning lengthy showing enlargements of areas Education explores issues at the note of caution that music is so material such as the Quran or responsible for movement and interface between scientific much a part of our lives and so periodic table. He suggested that touch processing as well as research and education and few accessible that it is at risk of there is a level of deep learning alterations to the regions issues fit this remit more so than being taken for granted. She that occurs when individuals involved in hearing. She states music, which has been the provided evidence of music create music that is not present that one area often focus of a recent government improving social and personal when you merely repeat what underestimated is expertise as review. As such the effects of development as well as others have created. This listeners and how individuals music were considered by the language and therefore literacy, creation also helps develop a can be educated to hear certain APPG at a meeting chaired by physical and intellectual sense of self and ownership and types of music as the brain Baroness Morris and Prof Coen development and attainment. has strong implications for how learns what to listen to and of King’s College London, a For example, she cited music we teach music. effectively ensures that musician and neuroscientist. The improving fine movements and information is then heard. She meeting first heard from Prof Following Prof Sheppard, Dr therefore improving writing. She outlined current research looking Philip Sheppard of the Royal Lauren Scott, a neuroscientist at reported findings from the “In into musicality and what facets Academy of Music. Prof Goldsmiths, University of Harmony” project which are associated with it. Although Sheppard outlined the extent of London, outlined the impact demonstrated that music the research is ongoing, she the impact music has on our music has on the brain. She training can result in increased

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 45 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:57 Page 48

performance on English and All speakers were emphatic lessons were optimal. Although be taken for granted and that as Maths SATs, even when the that music education is critical a number of factors were education changes, losing sight children have had less time and that the benefits transfer considered, the general of music would be a mistake studying these core subjects due across the entire curriculum and consensus was that beginning that impacts on development to increased time spent on beyond education. The with the voice through singing beyond the curriculum. music education. She suggests discussion that followed was a sensible choice and that that music can improve mood, included debate on the best group training was useful, wellbeing and measures such as type of music to start with, although individual lessons may attention and concentration and accessibility of music to those of be necessary as well to achieve that these benefits occur across lower socioeconomic status and particular levels of proficiency. It the whole lifespan. whether group or individual was clear that music should not

TIME FOR ACTION ON E-WASTE

The UK is currently organisation. Furthermore, as In response to these needs responsible for illegally exporting cowboy operations can in Sept 2009 the Photonics and around 23,000 tonnes of undercut the costs of Plastic Electronics and Resource computers alone to Africa each responsible recyclers this lack of Efficiency Network Knowledge year, the problem has yet to rise support is also hindering the Transfer Networks backed and far enough up the political growth of the UK’s e-waste published my call for a new agenda to merit serious recycling industry. Yet given the independent, industry-led attention. This means that the current economic climate the organisation to provide the UK remains in violation of the case for making the relatively following: Basel Convention, and it is now small investment that would be • Easily accessible and informed in violation of a 2009 needed to provide a significant Dr Keith Baker advice on e-waste Sustainable Urban amendment to the European boost to a mature and profitable Environments Research Group Waste Shipment Regulation, industry can be made on • Awareness-raising through Centre for Energy and the Built which effectively brought the economic grounds alone. targeted advice to the public Environment Basle Convention into law. and private sectors, and to School of the Built and Natural In the US, the Basel Action Environment consumers Glasgow Caledonian University A high profile investigation by Network administers the e- the Independent, Sky News and Stewards initiative (see www.e- • A platform for lobbying to end In August 2008 the Greenpeace in 2009, stewards.org) and is now the UK’s illegal exports of e- waste New York Times highlighted how the public expanding it overseas. E- sector remains a source of e- Stewards is a third-party audited • An independent, industry- described e-waste as waste that evades customs by accreditation programme that backed registration system for “the world’s fastest being labelled for 're-use' by provides certification for responsible recyclers, based tagging a TV disposed of at a responsible recyclers that growing and on e-Stewards potentially most municipal waste facility in ensure that no e-waste is Hampshire and tracking it to dumped in landfills or Since then little has changed dangerous waste Africa. Whilst several recent incinerators, exported to and the call remains a live problem”. Yet despite prosecutions by the developing countries or sent to document. However, given the continued criticism Environment Agency have prison labour operations, and continued economic downturn over its poor record on begun to raise the profile of the ensure no release of private and the significant potential for growth in the UK's e-waste tackling the problem issue, these merely represent data from waste devices. E- the tip of the iceberg. Both the Stewards was so popular with recycling industry, let alone the the UK Government EA and its Scottish equivalent industry that it was over- environmental benefits this has been slow to SEPA provide registers of subscribed even in its pilot year. would bring, there are now respond to the urgent approved recyclers and BAN has been able to make this more reasons than ever for the need to stem the exporters but, as is the case progress due to the backing of UK Government to support this with the stretched resources of leading recyclers in North call. illegal exports of waste environmental lobby groups, the America, and because it is able electronic equipment sheer scale of the problem and to focus solely on tackling the to the developing its lack of visibility demonstrate problem. world. the need for a dedicated

46 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:57 Page 49

HOUSE OF COMMONS SELECT COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

The Science and Technology CURRENT INQUIRIES Research and Innovation. Committee is established under Standing Order No 152, and Strategically important metals On 2 March the Committee took evidence charged with the scrutiny of the from Rt Hon David Willetts MP, Minister of State On 11 November 2010 the Committee expenditure, administration and for Universities and Science, and the Earl Howe, policy of the Government Office for announced an inquiry into strategically important Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Quality, Science, a semi-autonomous metals. The Committee held three oral evidence Department of Health organisation based within the sessions. Department for Business, Astronomy and Particle Physics Innovation and Skills. On 26 January the Committee took evidence from Professor David Manning, Secretary, On 26 January 2011 the Committee The current members of the announced an inquiry into Astronomy and Particle Science and Technology Committee Professional Matters, Geological Society, Dr Bernie are: Rickinson, Chief Executive, Institute of Materials, Physics. The Committee invited written Minerals and Mining, Dr Mike Pitts, Industry submissions on the following issues by 16 Gavin Barwell (Conservative, Technology Division, Royal Society of Chemistry, February 2011: Croydon Central), Gregg McClymont (Labour, Cumbernauld, Kilsyth and Ian Hetherington, Director General, British Metals 1. the impact of reduced capital funding on UK Kirkintilloch East), Stephen Recycling Association, Sophie Thomas, Council capability; McPartland (Conservative, Member, The Design Council, Tony Hartwell, Stevenage), Stephen Metcalfe Knowledge Transfer Manager, and Louis 2. the impact of withdrawal from international (Conservative, South Basildon and Brimacombe, Head, Environment & Sustainability ground-based facilities (for example the Gemini East Thurrock), Andrew Miller Observatory and Isaac Newton Group of (Labour, Ellesmere Port and Research Team, Tata Steel. telescopes) on the UK’s research base and Neston), David Morris On 16 February the Committee took evidence (Conservative, Morecambe and international reputation; Lunesdale), Stephen Mosley from Charles Emmerson, Senior Fellow, Chatham (Conservative, City of Chester), House, Dr Jonathan Di John, Lecturer in Political 3. whether the Science and Technology Facilities Pamela Nash (Labour, Airdrie and Economy, School of Oriental and African Studies, Council (STFC) has sufficiently engaged with its Shotts), Jonathan Reynolds Anthony Lipmann, Managing Director, Lipmann research community in these two areas on its (Labour/Co-operative, Stalybridge strategic direction and impacts of budget and Hyde), Graham Stringer Walton & Co Ltd, and former Chairman, Minor (Labour, Blackley and Broughton) Metals Trade Association, and Charles Swindon, reductions; and and Roger Williams (Liberal Chair of the Trade and Lobby Committee, Minor 4. opportunities for, and threats to, outreach and Democrat, Brecon and Metals Trade Association. Radnorshire). inspiring the next generation of astronomers On 2 March the Committee took evidence and particle physicists. Andrew Miller was elected by the from Professor Robert Watson, Chief Scientific House of Commons to be the Chair The Committee visited CERN near Geneva on of the Committee on 9 June 2010. Adviser, Department for Environment, Food and 2-3 February 2011 in connection with this inquiry. The remaining Members were Rural Affairs, Professor David Clary, Chief Scientific formally appointed to the Adviser, Foreign and Commonwealth Office, and Rt The Committee held two oral evidence Committee on 12 July 2010. Hon David Willetts MP, Minister of State for sessions. Stephen McPartland was formally Universities and Science appointed to the Committee on 14 On 9 March the Committee took evidence February 2011 in the place of Alok UK Centre for Medical Research and Innovation from Anna Barth, Camden School for Girls, Sharma. On 18 November 2010 the Committee London, Jack Bliss, Allerton Grange School, Leeds, announced an inquiry into the UK Centre for Jessica Grainger, Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Medical Research and Innovation (UKCMRI). The College, Widnes, Hilary Lamb, Stroud High School, Committee held three oral evidence sessions. Gloucestershire, James May, Castell Alun High School, Hope (nr. Wrexham), and Charlie Palin, On 9 February the Committee took evidence Neston High School, Cheshire, Dr Maggie Aderin- from Professor Malcolm Grant, President and Pocock, Space Scientist, Astrium Ltd and Science Provost, University College London, Harpal Kumar, Innovation Ltd, and Professor Jim Al-Khalili, Chief Executive, Cancer Research UK, Professor Sir Professor of Physics, Professor of Public John Savill, Chief Executive, Medical Research Engagement in Science, University of Surrey, Council, Sir Mark Walport, Chief Executive, Professor Dame Jocelyn Bell-Burnell, President, Wellcome Trust, and Natalie Bennett, Chair, Rob Institute of Physics, and Professor Roger Davies, Inglis, Press Officer, and Frankie Biney, St Pancras President, Royal Astronomical Society. and Somers Town Planning Action. On 16 March the Committee took evidence On 16 February the Committee took evidence from Professor Phil Allport, Head of Particle Physics from Sir Paul Nurse, Chief Executive and Director, and Director of the Liverpool Semiconductor Sir David Cooksey, Chairman, and John Cooper, Detector Centre, University of Liverpool, Professor Chief Operating Officer, UK Centre for Medical Mike Bode, Director of the Astrophysics Research

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 47 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:58 Page 50

Institute, Liverpool John Moores University, Professor Robert C submissions on the following issues by 10 March 2011: Kennicutt Jr, Plumian Professor of Astronomy and Experimental 1. the strengths and weaknesses of peer review as a quality control Philosophy Director, Institute of Astronomy, University of Cambridge, mechanism for scientists, publishers and the public; Professor John Peacock, Head of the Institute for Astronomy, University of Edinburgh, Professor Steve Rawlings, sub-Department of 2. measures to strengthen peer review; Astrophysics, Oxford University, and Professor Andrei Seryi, Director, 3. the value and use of peer reviewed science on advancing and John Adams Institute for Accelerator Science, Professor Keith Mason, testing scientific knowledge; Chief Executive of the Science and Technology Facilities Council, and Sir Adrian Smith, Director General, Knowledge and Innovation, 4. the value and use of peer reviewed science in informing public Department of Business, Innovation and Skills. debate; Forensic Science Service 5. the extent to which peer review varies between scientific On 19 January 2011 the Committee announced an inquiry into disciplines and between countries across the world; the Government’s decision to wind down the Forensic Science 6. the processes by which reviewers with the requisite skills and Service. The Committee invited written submissions on the following knowledge are identified, in particular as the volume of multi- issues by 14 February: disciplinary research increases; 1. What will be the impact of the closure of the Forensic Science 7. the impact of IT and greater use of online resources on the peer Service on forensic science and on the future development of review process; and forensic science in the UK? 8. possible alternatives to peer review. 2. What will be the implications of the closure on the quality and impartiality of forensic evidence used in the criminal justice The Committee expects to hold oral evidence sessions in May system? and June. The written evidence received is on the Committee’s website. 3. What is the financial position of the Forensic Science Service? Spending Review 2010 4. What is the state of, and prospects for, the forensics market in the On 24 November 2010 and 19 January 2011 the Committee UK, specifically whether the private sector can carry out the work took oral evidence on the Spending Review 2010. On 26 January currently done by the Forensic Science Service and the volume the Committee invited written submissions on the science and and nature of the forensic work carried out by police forces? research budget allocations for 2011/12 to 2014/15 by 27 April 5. What are the alternatives to winding-down the Forensic Science 2011. The written evidence received will be placed on the Service? Committee’s website. 6. So far as they are known, are the arrangements for closing down Practical experiments in school science lessons and science field the Forensic Science Service, making staff redundant and selling its trips assets adequate? On 5 April 2011 the Committee announced an inquiry into the The Committee visited the Forensic Science Service in Lambeth practical experiments in school science lessons and science field on 22 March 2011, and a member of the Committee visited LGC in trips. The Committee invited written submissions on the following Teddington in a representative capacity on 6 April 2011 in issues by 11 May 2011: connection with this inquiry. 1. How important are practical experiments and field trips in science On 23 March the Committee took evidence from Bill Griffiths, education? Chairman, Dr Gillian Tully, Research and Development Manager, 2. Are practical experiments in science lessons and science field trips Forensic Science Service, and Steve Thomas, Officer for Forensic in decline? If they are, what are the reasons for the decline? Science Service, Prospect Union. 3. What part do health and safety concerns play in preventing school On 30 March the Committee took evidence from Professor Jim pupils from performing practical experiments in science lessons Fraser, Director, Centre for Forensic Science, University of Strathclyde, and going on field trips? What rules and regulations apply to David Hartshorne, Commercial Director, Cellmark Forensic, Professor science experiments and field trips and how are they being Sir Alec Jeffreys, Professor of Genetics, University of Leicester, David interpreted? Richardson, Chief Executive, LGC, Dr Simon Bramble, Head of Police Science and Forensics, National Policing Improvement Agency, Roger 4. Do examination boards adequately recognise practical experiments Coe-Salazar, Chief Crown Prosecutor, Crown Prosecution Service, and trips? Gary Pugh, Director of Forensic Services, Metropolitan Police Service, 5. If the quality or number of practical experiments and field trips is and Chief Constable Chris Sims, Association of Chief Police Officers. declining, what are the consequences for science education and The Committee took further evidence on Wednesday 27 April career choices? For example, what effects are there on the from Professor Bernard Silverman, Chief Scientific Adviser, Andrew performance and achievement of pupils and students in Higher Rennison, Forensic Science Regulator, Home Office, and James Education? Brokenshire MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Crime 6. What changes should be made? Prevention, and Stephen Webb, Director of Finance and Strategy, Crime and Policing Group, Home Office. 7. Is the experience of schools in England in line with schools in the devolved administrations and other countries? The written evidence received on all these inquiries is on the Committee’s website. The Committee expects to take oral evidence in June and July 2011. The written evidence received will be placed on the Peer review Committee’s website. On 26 January 2011 the Committee announced an inquiry examining the peer review process. The Committee invited written

48 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:58 Page 51

ORAL EVIDENCE Technology and Innovation Centres On 17 February 2011 the Committee published its Second The transcripts of the evidence sessions described above and Report of Session 2010-11, Technology and Innovation Centres, HC below are available on the Science and Technology Committee’s 619. website [www.parliament.uk/science]. Scientific advice and evidence in emergencies Pfizer’s decision to close its research and development facility at Sandwich On 2 March 2011 the Committee published its Third Report of Session 2010-11, Scientific advice and evidence in emergencies, HC On 4 February 2011 the Committee announced that it would take 498. oral evidence on Pfizer’s decision to close its research and development facility at Sandwich. The Committee held two oral GOVERNMENT RESPONSES evidence sessions. The Committee awaits a response to one of its predecessor On 28 February the Committee took evidence from Dr Richard Committee’s Reports of Session 2009-10, Bioengineering, Seventh Barker, Director General, Association of the British Pharmaceutical Report (HC 220); the response is expected shortly. The Committee Industry, Dr David M Hollinshead, Royal Society of Chemistry, Richard is also expecting to receive shortly a response to its First Report of Blackburn, Managing Director, Pfizer UK, Dr Olivier Brandicourt, Session 2010-12, The Reviews into the University of East Anglia’s President and General Manager of Pfizer’s Primary Care Business Climatic Research Unit’s E-mails (HC 444). It is expected that both Unit, Dr Rod MacKenzie, Senior Vice President and Head of responses will be published as Special Reports in May 2011. Worldwide Research for PharmaTherapeutics Research and Development, and Dr Ruth McKernan, Senior Vice President and Site FURTHER INFORMATION Head, Sandwich, and Chief Scientific Officer for Pfizer Regenerative Further information about the work of the Science and Technology Medicine. Committee or its current inquiries can be obtained from the Clerk of On 2 March the Committee took evidence from Rt Hon David the Committee, Glenn McKee, the Second Clerk, Stephen Willetts MP, Minister of State for Universities and Science. McGinness, or from the Senior Committee Assistant, Andy Boyd, on 020 7219 8367/2792/2793 respectively; or by writing to: The Clerk Following the evidence session the Committee wrote to the of the Committee, Science and Technology Committee, House of Government on 16 March and the Government replied on 25 March Commons, 7 Millbank, London SW1P 3JA. Enquiries can also be e- 2011. These letters and the associated written evidence received is mailed to [email protected]. Anyone wishing to be included on the Committee’s website. on the Committee’s mailing list should contact the staff of the REPORTS Committee. Anyone wishing to submit evidence to the Committee is strongly recommended to obtain a copy of the guidance note first. The Reviews into the University of East Anglia’s Climatic Guidance on the submission of evidence can be found at Research Unit’s E-mails www.parliament.uk/commons/selcom/witguide.htm. The Committee On 25 January 2011 the Committee published its First Report of has a website, www.parliament.uk/science, where all recent Session 2010-11, The Reviews into the University of East Anglia’s publications, terms of reference for all inquiries and press notices are Climatic Research Unit’s E-mails, HC 444. available. HOUSE OF COMMONS LIBRARY SCIENCE AND ENVIRONMENT SECTION

Research Papers produced for Localism Bill: Committee Stage Report Energy Bill Members of Parliament are Research Paper 11/32 Research Paper 11/36 summarised opposite. Papers can be accessed at This is a report on the House of Commons This briefing was prepared for the Second http://www.parliament.uk/business/ Committee Stage of the Localism Bill. It Reading Debate on the Bill in the House of publications/research/research- papers/ complements Library Research Papers 11/02 Commons. The flagship policy in the Bill is the (Local Government and Community Empower- framework for a Green Deal; a scheme whereby The Section produces a series of ment) and 11/03 (Planning and Housing) energy efficiency measures in households and frequently updated notes on a wide prepared for the Commons Second Reading. non-domestic properties could be paid for upfront of topics. Overleaf are summaries by a finance package, which would then be repaid of some recently updated notes. The Bill covers a wide range of topics in local by savings made through lower energy bills. The government, planning, housing and the The notes can be accessed online Bill also provides for a new obligation on energy governance of London. The Bill was not at http://www.parliament. companies to help certain groups of consumers substantially amended in Committee, although uk/topics/Topical-Issues.htm with saving energy and money on heating costs, there were some minor technical Government particularly those who may not qualify for the For further information contact amendments. However, at several points, Ministers Green Deal. Christopher Barclay Head of Section agreed to look again at certain issues and consider Tel: 020 7219 3624 email: [email protected] whether to introduce amendments at Report The Bill also introduces a range of other Stage. measures designed to improve energy efficiency;

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 49 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:58 Page 52

facilitating the roll-out of smart meters, widening access to energy either before, during or after combustion in energy generation. The performance certificates and making information on energy bills CO2 would then be transported and stored long-term in clearer. It also provides measures designed to help improve energy underground geological formations, such as saline aquifers and security, to encourage low carbon generation and to grant additional depleted oil and gas reservoirs. powers to the Coal Authority to charge for certain services. In Budget 2007 a competition was announced for government The Bill has completed all of its stages in the House of Lords. One funding for one post-combustion CCS demonstration plant, originally of the particular concerns raised was the large number of provisions due to be operational around 2014. There is now only one entrant for further delegated legislation provided for in the Bill. This paper left in the competition and completion is expected in 4-6 years time. explains all the elements of the Bill and reaction to them in more A process to select a further three demonstration projects is due to detail. be announced later in 2011. Japanese quake: nuclear power SN/SC/5900 This note sets how CCS might work, along with some of the This note sets out official information from the International concerns. It also outlines Government proposals for an emissions Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) about the nuclear power plants in performance standard on coal-fired power. Japan following the earthquake and tsunami, 11 March 2011, with Consents for Wind Farms – Onshore SN/SC/4370 comments about what is happening and why. The note also covers Wind farms require either planning permission or consent under the effect of the crisis on the nuclear energy policy of the UK, the EC the Planning Act 2008. This note discusses why so many applications and other countries. for onshore wind farms have been rejected, and whether the system Carbon Price Support SN/SC/5927 is resulting in unacceptable delays. Fluctuations in the price of carbon in the form of EU ETS Many applications for onshore wind farms were rejected under allowances have resulted in uncertainty for investors in low carbon the Labour Government. The main reason was concern that a large technologies. This has contributed to a lower level of investment in wind farm would damage the landscape. Some applications were these technologies, below what is required to meet UK carbon approved, partly because their visual impact was normally considered reduction and renewable targets. to be limited and partly because of Labour Government targets to The Coalition Government committed to introduce a floor price encourage the use of more renewable energy. for carbon and published a consultation on carbon price support in The Localism Bill would abolish Regional Spatial Strategies, December 2010. Following this it announced in the March 2011 including regional targets for renewable energy. This intention can Budget that it would be introducing price support via the Climate already be taken into account in determining planning applications. Change Levy and fuel duty with a target price of £30 per tonne of Another scheme will offer a local community benefits from hosting a carbon dioxide in 2020. The floor price will start at about £16 per wind farm. As an incentive, it will be allowed to retain the additional tonne. The trading price in March 2011, which was higher than it has business rates generated. been for some time, was around £15 per tonne. How UK farmers could reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions Renewables: Feed-in Tariffs and The Renewables Obligation SN/SC/4340 SN/SC/5870 It is generally accepted that the emissions of greenhouse gases The Renewables Obligation (RO) and Feed-in Tariffs (FITs) are (GHG) need to be sharply reduced. This note considers how part of the Government’s strategy for increasing renewable electricity agriculture could contribute to this objective. generation. This is necessary because the UK has an EU target for renewable energy of 15% by 2020, a significant proportion of which A report by Stanford University in 2010 concluded that intensive is expected to come from electricity. farming contributed to reduction in carbon emissions, because the alternative would be to use much more land at a lower productivity. The Renewables Obligation, as originally introduced in 2002, was The researchers found that agricultural advances between 1961 and criticised for being too complicated, particularly for small generators, 2005 spared a portion of land larger than Russia from development and not distinguishing between different technologies in need of and reduced emissions by the equivalent of 590 Gigatonnes of varying levels of support. These issues have now been addressed. carbon dioxide – roughly a third of the total emitted since the start of The first by the introduction of FITs for generators of less than 5 MW; the Industrial Revolution. the second by introducing banding for the different technologies, which will be reviewed regularly. The main criticism that has been Some people argue that a vegan diet is necessary to reduce made of FITs, which is not limited to the UK, is that they are an emissions of methane from ruminants. Others argue that changes to expensive way of stimulating renewable generation. feeding practices can achieve considerable reductions. The first review of FITs was due in 2013 but has been brought In November 2010 the Government announced increased funds forward. The Government was concerned about the increasing for research into measuring the effect of specific agricultural practices number of large photovoltaic projects under FITs and the low level of on GHG emissions. On 29 March 2011, the UK farming industry anaerobic digestion schemes so far. The Government has published launched a Greenhouse Gas Action Plan. a consultation in which it proposes a scaled reduction of the tariffs Bees and Varroa SN/SC/446 for solar projects of above 50kW. Changes would be made in July There has been a dramatic decline in bee numbers worldwide. 2011 and take effect from 1st August 2011. The reasons for the decline are unclear. Possibilities include some The review of banding for RO Certificates is also under way. The environmental stress, pesticides, combined with weakness from Government intends to announce the changes to the RO, to be diseases like varroa. The decline could seriously affect pollination of implemented in 2013, by the end of 2011 to ensure greater investor orchards. certainty. Defra launched a Bee Health Plan in 2009, including £10m to be Carbon capture and storage SN/SC/5086 spent on research into pollinators, including honey bees. A Public Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a new, developing, Accounts Committee report in 2009 – after the launch of the Bee technology that would capture the carbon dioxide from fossil fuels Health Plan – called for a higher priority for honey bees. Varroa has

50 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:58 Page 53

spread through the British bee population since about 1990. 2009/10 winter, but less than in 2008/9. Treatments have been developed but the bees may be left seriously US research suggests that colony collapse results from a weakened. combination of a virus and a fungus. UK research suggests that the News from the USA in May 2010 of further extensive losses has decline in pollinators is partly caused by certain wild plants being out- raised concerns that honey bees might be in terminal decline. The competed by other plants, so that less nectar is available for bees. British Beekeepers Association reported further losses in the HOUSE OF LORDS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY SELECT COMMITTEE

The members of the Committee Nuclear research and development capabilities which behaviour change interventions are effective, (appointed 22 June 2010) are Lord whether the Government’s current behaviour Broers, Lord Crickhowell, Lord In March 2011, the Science and Technology Cunningham of Felling, Baroness Committee, under the Chairmanship of Lord change interventions are evidence-based and Hilton of Eggardon, Lord Krebs Krebs, launched a short inquiry into the UK’s subject to robust evaluation, and how such (Chairman), Baroness Neuberger, nuclear research and development (R&D) interventions are coordinated across departments. Lord Patel, Baroness Perry of capabilities. The Committee will also be looking at the role of Southwark, Lord Rees of Ludlow, the industry and the voluntary sector in shaping Earl of Selborne, Lord Wade of The inquiry will focus on what the Government Chorley, Lord Warner, Lord Willis of behaviour patterns and the social and ethical Knaresborough and Lord Winston. should be doing if they are to ensure that the UK’s issues surrounding behaviour change interventions Lord Jenkin of Roding and Lord R&D capabilities are sufficient to meet our nuclear by government. Oxburgh have been co-opted to the energy requirements into the future. It will Committee for the purposes of its examine, amongst other things, the R&D As part of its inquiry, the sub-committee is also inquiry into nuclear research and implications of future scenarios up to 2050 and conducting two case studies. The first will look at development capabilities. Lord behaviour change interventions designed to Alderdice, Lord May of Oxford, whether the UK has adequate R&D capabilities, Baroness O’Neill of Bengarve and including infrastructure, to meet its current and reduce obesity. The second will focus on travel- Lord Sutherland of Houndwood have future needs for a safe and secure supply of mode interventions to reduce car use in towns been co-opted to Sub-Committee I nuclear energy. and cities. for the purposes of its inquiry into behaviour change policy Whilst the Committee decided to undertake the A call for evidence was published on 28 July interventions. inquiry before the recent events in Japan at the 2010 with a deadline for submission of 8 October Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant, health and safety 2010. A second call for evidence on the travel- R&D capability is within the scope of the inquiry mode interventions case study was published on and the Committee is inviting evidence on these 10 December 2010 with a deadline for matters. submission of 21 January 2011. The Committee held a seminar as part of the obesity case study A call for evidence was released on 17 March on 19 October 2010 and a second seminar on 2011 with a deadline for submission of 28 April travel-mode interventions on 26 January 2011. 2011. The Committee held a workshop with The Committee began taking oral evidence in Government officials and key stakeholders on 5 November 2010 and finished in March 2011. The April to start off the inquiry. The Committee will Committee is due to report in the summer. hold public meetings from 10 May 2011 and the report will be published later in 2011. Public procurement as a tool to stimulate innovation Behaviour change policy interventions The Select Committee, under the chairmanship The Select Committee has appointed a Sub- of Lord Krebs, launched a short inquiry into public Committee under the chairmanship of Baroness procurement as a tool to stimulate innovation Neuberger to conduct an inquiry into the within industry. The inquiry is focused, in particular, effectiveness of behaviour change interventions in on the Department for Transport and related achieving government policy goals and helping to public bodies, as a working example of the current meet societal challenges. procurement practices within departments. The As governments across the world attempt to inquiry seeks to investigate the extent to which the meet societal challenges such as reducing carbon current procurement practices and processes are emissions and alleviating the burden on health effective in encouraging innovation within industry services caused by smoking, drinking and the rise and supporting the development and diffusion of in obesity, more and more attention is being innovations. focused on how behaviour can be influenced A call for evidence inviting written submission using a range of behaviour change interventions was published on 22 October 2010 with a that rely on measures other than prohibition or the deadline of 13 December 2010. The Committee elimination of choice. The sub-committee will began taking oral evidence on 21 December and consider the current state of knowledge about is due to report in May 2011.

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 51 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:58 Page 54

OUTSTANDING ACTIVITIES FROM THE PREVIOUS Radioactive Waste Management: a further update PARLIAMENT The Select Committee appointed a Sub-Committee to conduct a short follow-up inquiry into the management of radioactive waste, Setting Priorities for Publicly Funded Research following the Committee’s previous reports on the subject, the last of An inquiry into the setting of science and technology research which was published in session 2006-07. funding priorities was launched in July 2009. The inquiry was undertaken by the Select Committee under the chairmanship of Lord The inquiry focused on the role and performance of the Sutherland. Committee on Radioactive Waste Management (CoRWM) which provides independent scrutiny and advice on the implementation of Cuts in overall public spending due to the current economic the Government’s Managing Radioactive Waste Safely programme. climate will lead to some difficult decisions about how to allocate The Committee held a one-off evidence session with representatives public funds for science and technology research. Effective from CoRWM, Lord Hunt, Minister of State for Energy and Climate mechanisms for allocating funds are vital if the United Kingdom Change, and representatives from the Department of Energy and science base is to remain healthy, both now and in the future, and is Climate Change and the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority in able to continue to meet societal needs. The Committee investigated February 2010, and published its report on 25 March 2010. The a range of issues including how decisions about funding research are Government’s response was received on 9 November 2010 and the made across Government and within Government departments and report was debated by the House on 10 February 2011. other public bodies, whether the balance between funding for targeted research and unsolicited response-mode curiosity-driven FURTHER INFORMATION research is appropriate, and how research is commissioned. The written and oral evidence to the Committee’s inquiries The Committee published its report on 1 April 2010. The mentioned above, as well as the Calls for Evidence and other Government response to the report was published on 30 July 2010. documents can be found on the Committee’s website The report is likely to be debated in the House during the current www.parliament.uk/hlscience. Further information about the work of session. the Committee can be obtained from Christine Salmon Percival, Committee Clerk, [email protected] or 020 7219 6072. The Committee’s email address is [email protected].

PARLIAMENTARY OFFICE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (POST)

RECENT POST PUBLICATIONS transform the electricity system and its operation. This will require many billions of pounds of investment in the UK’s electricity networks Environmental Limits to: March 2011 POST Long Report 370, 159 pages • renew ageing networks; An environmental limit is usually interpreted as the point or range of conditions beyond which there is a significant risk of abrupt • make networks ‘smarter’, particularly at the regional level; irreversible, or difficult to reverse, changes to the benefits derived • build and reinforce networks both inland and offshore. from natural resource systems with consequent impacts on human well-being. Natural resources such as land, water, soil, plants and This note examines the possibilities and challenges for network animals should be used and managed within boundaries that allow development in the UK. the resource to renew itself. Otherwise, well-being, for present and Water Adaptation in Africa future generations, will be affected. This POST long report on April 2011 POSTnote 373 environmental limits sets out the challenges to achieving this aim, while considering the complex trade-offs between social, economic Africa is one of the world’s regions most vulnerable to climate and environmental objectives. change. Potential impacts of climate change on the continent are multiple but are mostly connected through the medium of water. Housing and Health Historically, the continent has unpredictable rainfall and climate January 2011 POSTnote 371 patterns which are likely to be exacerbated by future climate change. The Decent Homes Programme aimed to refurbish all social This briefing, the latest in POST’s series on science and technology for sector homes to a minimum standard between 2000 and 2010. The development, discusses adapting water resource management to Government will invest a further £1.6 billion to improve housing in climate change. the public sector. However, housing quality is poorest in the private Unconventional Gas rented sector; homes in this sector housing people on benefits are April 2011 POSTnote 374 not supported under the new initiative. This briefing looks at the impact of poor housing on health and examines the implications for Unconventional sources of gas have recently gained much housing policy. attention due to the significant contribution they are making to US gas production. This POSTnote examines the potential for Future Electricity Networks unconventional gas exploitation in the UK, the regulatory regimes February 2011 POSTnote 372 covering such activity, and the issues surrounding the extraction and Ongoing reforms of regulation and the electricity market aim to use of the gas.

52 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:58 Page 55

Deception Detection Technologies habitats, but does not protect the low-priority biodiversity that April 2011 POSTnote 375 supports the functioning and processes of ecosystems. Such biodiversity is being depleted rapidly as a result of human Deception detection technologies such as polygraphs have been development activities, including agriculture, forestry, transport, available for decades, although their use is controversial. Newer industry, and housing development. Conceptually similar to carbon techniques are being developed that aim to detect deception based credit schemes, biodiversity offsets are market-based conservation on facial imaging or brain activity. This briefing outlines the scientific strategies that place economic value on low-priority habitats by basis for deception detection technology and considers the measuring human impacts on nature as credits and debits. Angela C implications of its use in different contexts. Smith MP, Chair of the Conservation and Wildlife All-Party Mental Capacity Act Parliamentary Group, chaired the seminar at which invited guests April 2011 POSTnote 376 heard presentations from Bronwen Jones, Head of the Biodiversity Offsetting Team in Defra; Dr Jo Treweek, Partner, Treweek Adults with learning disabilities or suffering from dementia, brain Environmental Consultants; Professor David Hill, The Environment injuries or mental illness may be unable to make health decisions for Bank Ltd and Michael Oxford, Project Officer, Association of Local themselves. At such times, others (surrogates) will need to decide in Government Ecologists. their place. The Mental Capacity Act (2005) provides a surrogate decision-making framework. It exists alongside another such Foresight Project Global Food and Farming Futures framework – the Mental Health Act. While the Mental Health Act is On 9th February POST, in conjunction with the All Party restricted to compulsory treatment for mental disorders, the Mental Parliamentary Group on Agriculture and Food for Development and Capacity Act has a broader scope. It applies to physical and mental the House of Lords EU Subcommittee D, Agriculture, Fisheries and health as well as welfare, finances, property and research Environment, hosted the parliamentary launch of the government participation. This POSTnote outlines how the Mental Capacity Act is Foresight project – Global Food and Farming Futures. This has being interpreted in healthcare and how it works alongside the considered how a future global population of 9 billion people can all Mental Health Act. be fed sustainably and healthily, based on five critical future CURRENT WORK challenges: • balancing future demand and sustainable production; Biological Sciences – Animal Health and Biosecurity, Personal Genomics, Improving Livestock, Clinical Trials, Review of Stem Cell • addressing the threat of future volatility in the food system; Research, An Ageing Workforce. • ending hunger; Environment and Energy – Update to Carbon Footprint of • meeting the challenges of a low emissions world; and, Electricity Generation (POSTnote 268), Energy Security, Future Landscapes, Evidence Based Conservation, Invasive Tree Pathogens, • maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services while feeding Algal Biofuels, Anaerobic Digestion, Marine Spatial Planning, the world. Embedded Water in Products. Lord Carter of Coles, Chair of EU Subcommittee D, Agriculture, Physical sciences and IT – Solar Technologies, Technologies for Fisheries and Environment, chaired the seminar at which invited Clean Water, Opening Up Public Sector Data. guests heard presentations from the Minister of State for International Development at DFID, Stephen O’Brien MP; Professor Sir John Science Policy – Science, Technology, Mathematics and Beddington, Government Chief Scientific Adviser and Professor Engineering (STEM) Education: 14-19 Year Olds, Informal STEM Charles Godfray, Hope Professor at Oxford University. This meeting Education had the largest attendance of any ‘conventional lecture’ occasion that CONFERENCES AND SEMINARS POST has ever hosted in its 22-year history, with the largest committee room in the Palace being filled to over-capacity. Radio Spectrum Licences Staff, Fellows and Interns at POST On 20th January POST hosted a seminar to explore critical decisions on radio spectrum licensing. The daily usage of wireless Conventional Fellows (name, institution and sponsoring devices contributes an estimated £42 billion to the UK economy, organisation) with uses ranging from smart-phones to air traffic control. Consumer Beth Dyson, Manchester University, Natural Environment Research demand for wireless technology has increased dramatically, as has Council the demand for radio spectrum licences. Ofcom, the spectrum Eleanor Kean, Cardiff University, British Ecological Society regulator, now auctions licences, and allows licences to be traded. Emma Ransome, Plymouth University, Natural Environment Research With the Government’s commitment to universal broadband access Council expected further to increase demand for spectrum and a major Martina Di Fonzo, Imperial College London, Natural Environment auction of licences due in early 2012, radio spectrum management Research Council is now a key issue for UK industry and consumers. At the event, the Joanna Hepworth, York University, Biotechnology and Biological issues were discussed by a panel which included Matthew Conway, Sciences Research Council Director of Government and Parliamentary Business, Ofcom; Julian Heather Riley, Birmingham University, Biotechnology and Biological McGougan, Head of Public Policy & Regulatory Affairs, Arqiva; Martin Sciences Research Council Sims, Managing Editor, Policy Tracker and Raj Sivalingam, Associate Clare Dyer-Smith, Imperial College London, Royal Society of Director for Telecoms and Spectrum, Intellect. Chemistry Biodiversity Offsetting Anders Aufderhorst-Roberts, Cambridge University, Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council On 25th January POST hosted a seminar on biodiversity offsetting Zoe Freeman, Edinburgh University, Biotechnology and Biological and the potential benefits and risks of market-based conservation Sciences Research Council strategies within a UK context, with representatives of key groups Natalie Banner, Kings College London, Wellcome Trust Medical involved. Environmental legislation protects endangered species and History and Humanities division

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 53 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:58 Page 56

Joanna Edgar, Bristol University, Institute of Food Science and organised by the University of Tokyo. A second seminar, held on Technology 11th March, to present the work of POST’s Dutch sister organisation, the Rathenau Institute, was regrettably disrupted by Special Fellow the major earthquake that occurred that afternoon. Dr Mara Almeida, Medical Research Council, Functional Genomics On 8th February POST Board member Chinyelu Onwurah MP Unit, Oxford University, on a special Portuguese Government one and the Director received a delegation from the Asamblea year scholarship to study the functioning of parliamentary science Legislativa of Costa Rica, led by its Speaker. The delegation had offices. specifically requested a briefing on science and technology issues during its more general mission to the UK Parliament. INTERNATIONAL ACTIVITIES In terms of inbound delegations, requests to inform missions Lectures and Presentations from China continue to arrive regularly. In March a delegation of On 27th January POST intern Seil Collins, a fluent French speaker, environmental scientists from the north-east province of Shandong was invited by POST’s sister organisation at the French Parliament, requested a briefing on Parliament’s long involvement with policy the Office Parlementaire d'Evaluation des Choix Scientifiques et for local air and water quality. They were particularly interested in Technologiques to take part in their planning seminar on a the circumstances leading to the 1956 Clean Air Act. forthcoming study on “Les Sauts Technologiques en Médecine”, held POST African Parliaments Programme at the Assemblée Nationale in Paris. Elections have just taken place in Uganda so most project work On 7th March 2011 the Director was a panellist, along with is directed towards the planning of activities which will take place in members of the Japanese Parliament’s Houses of Representatives or the new Parliament, from May onwards. These will include a third Counsellors, including the chair of the newly-created parliamentary round of MP-scientist pairing, the setting up of a “remote committee that will promote science and technology assessment in mentoring” scheme for Ugandan parliamentary staff working on Japan, at a special symposium on “How Can Technology Assessment scientific issues and a parliamentary internship scheme for Contribute to Government Policy and Society in Japan”. This was Ugandan scientists.

SELECTED DEBATES

Opposite is a list of a selection of HOUSE OF LORDS 15 February Wave Power HoC 258WH Debates on matters of scientific 10 January Parkinson’s Disease HoL 1239 16 February Renewable Energy The Humber interest which took place in the HoC 322WH House of Commons, the House of 11 January Revised Draft Overarching National Lords or Westminster Hall between Policy Statement for Energy 17 February Rail Investment HoC 341WH 10 January and 5 April. HoL GC115 7 March Pfizer (Sandwich) HoC 747 13 January NHS: Front-line and specialised 8 March University Admission HoC 188WH services HoL 1611 8 March Eco-island Strategy (Isle of Wight) 10 February Radioactive Waste Management: HoC 207WH Science and Technology Committee 8 March Humanitarian Disasters HoC 879 Report HoL 425 9 March East London Tech City HoC 239WH 24 March Adapting to Climate Change: EU Agriculture and Forestry 29 March Solar Power and Feed-in Tariffs (EUC Report) HoL 913 HoC 47WH 31 March NHS: Standards of Care 29 March Rail Engineering (Jobs) HoC 313 and Commissioning HoL 1396 31 March High-Speed Rail HoC 147WH 5 April Net Neutrality HoC 253WH HOUSE OF COMMONS ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 12 January Biotechnology and Food Security HoC 69WH PROGRESS OF LEGISLATION 13 January Umbilical Cord Blood HoC 707 A comprehensive list of Public Bills before 25 January Neonicotinoid Pesticides HoC 67WH Parliament, giving up-to-date information on their progress, is published regularly when Parliament 26 January UK Internet Search Engines is sitting in the Weekly Information Bulletin, which HoC 133WH can be found at: http://www.publications. 2 February Myalgic Encephalomyelitis parliament.uk/pa/cm/cmwib.htm HoC 323WH 8 February Student Visas HoC 271 10 February Onshore Wind Energy HoC 147WH

54 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:58 Page 57

SCIENCE DIRECTORY DIRECTORY INDEX Aerospace and Aviation Chemistry British Society for Antimicrobial Food and Food Technology C-Tech Innovation C-Tech Innovation Chemotherapy British Nutrition Foundation EPSRC EPSRC CABI CABI Institution of Engineering Designers Institution of Chemical Engineers Clifton Scientific Trust C-Tech Innovation National Physical Laboratory LGC C-Tech Innovation The Food and Environment Research Semta London Metropolitan Polymer Centre Economic and Social Research Agency Plymouth Marine Sciences Council Institute of Food Science & Agriculture Partnership EPSRC Technology BBSRC Royal Institution EngineeringUK Institution of Chemical Engineers CABI Royal Society of Chemistry Institute of Measurement and Control LGC The Food and Environment Research STFC Institute of Physics The Nutrition Society Agency Institution of Chemical Engineers Royal Society of Chemistry Institution of Engineering Designers Colloid Science Institution of Civil Engineers Society for Applied Microbiology LGC London Metropolitan Polymer Centre Institution of Engineering and Society for General Microbiology PHARMAQ Ltd Royal Society of Chemistry Technology Society of Biology Society for Applied Microbiology Institution of Mechanical Engineers Society for General Microbiology Construction and Building LGC Forensics Society of Biology The Geological Society London Metropolitan Polymer Centre Institute of Measurement and Control UFAW Institution of Civil Engineers NESTA LGC Institution of Engineering Designers National Physical Laboratory Royal Society of Chemistry Animal Health and Welfare, Institution of Engineering and Natural History Museum Veterinary Research Technology The Physiological Society Genetics ABPI London Metropolitan Polymer Centre Plymouth Marine Sciences ABPI Academy of Medical Sciences National Physical Laboratory Partnership BBSRC The Nutrition Society Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew LGC PHARMAQ Ltd Cosmetic Science Royal Institution Natural History Museum Society for Applied Microbiology Society of Cosmetic Scientists The Royal Society The Physiological Society Society for General Microbiology Royal Society of Chemistry Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Society of Biology Earth Sciences Royal Statistical Society Society of Biology UFAW The Geological Society Semta The Linnean Society of London Society of Biology Geology and Geoscience Astronomy and Space Science Natural Environment Research AMSI Institute of Physics Council Energy The Geological Society Institution of Engineering Designers Natural History Museum CABI Institution of Civil Engineers Natural History Museum Society of Biology C-Tech Innovation Natural Environment Research Council STFC EPSRC Ecology, Environment and GAMBICA Association Ltd Hazard and Risk Mitigation Atmospheric Sciences, Climate and Biodiversity Institute of Measurement and Control The Geological Society Weather AMSI Institute of Physics Institute of Measurement and Control The Geological Society The British Ecological Society Institution of Chemical Engineers Institution of Chemical Engineers Natural Environment Research CABI Institution of Civil Engineers Council C-Tech Innovation Institution of Engineering Designers Health STFC Economic and Social Research Institution of Engineering and ABPI Council Technology Academy of Medical Sciences Biotechnology The Food and Environment Research Institution of Mechanical Engineers Biochemical Society BBSRC Agency Plymouth Marine Sciences British Nutrition Foundation Biochemical Society Institution of Chemical Engineers Partnership British Pharmacological Society CABI Institution of Civil Engineers Royal Society of Chemistry British Society for Antimicrobial C-Tech Innovation Institution of Mechanical Engineers STFC Chemotherapy Eli Lilly and Company Ltd LGC Economic and Social Research Institution of Chemical Engineers The Linnean Society of London Engineering Council LGC National Physical Laboratory C-Tech Innovation Eli Lilly and Company Ltd National Physical Laboratory Natural Environment Research EPSRC EPSRC Plymouth Marine Sciences Council EngineeringUK The Food and Environment Research Partnership Natural History Museum GAMBICA Association Ltd Agency Royal Society of Chemistry Plymouth Marine Sciences Institute of Measurement and Control GAMBICA Association Ltd Semta Partnership Institution of Chemical Engineers Institute of Physics and Engineering in Society for Applied Microbiology Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Institution of Civil Engineers Medicine Society for General Microbiology Royal Society of Chemistry Institution of Engineering Designers LGC Society of Biology Society for Applied Microbiology Institution of Engineering and Medical Research Council Society for General Microbiology Technology National Physical Laboratory Brain Research Society of Biology Institution of Mechanical Engineers The Nutrition Society ABPI London Metropolitan Polymer Centre The Physiological Society Eli Lilly and Company Ltd Economic and Social Research National Physical Laboratory Royal Institution Merck Sharp & Dohme Economic and Social Research Plymouth Marine Sciences Royal Society of Chemistry The Physiological Society Council Partnership Society for Applied Microbiology The Royal Academy of Engineering Society for General Microbiology Cancer Research Education, Training and Skills Semta Society of Biology ABPI ABPI STFC Eli Lilly and Company Ltd Academy of Medical Sciences Heart Research National Physical Laboratory AIRTO Fisheries Research ABPI Biochemical Society AMSI Eli Lilly and Company Ltd Catalysis British Science Association Plymouth Marine Sciences The Physiological Society C-Tech Innovation The British Ecological Society Partnership Institution of Chemical Engineers British Nutrition Foundation Society of Biology Hydrocarbons and Petroleum Royal Society of Chemistry British Pharmacological Society The Geological Society

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 55 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:58 Page 58

Institution of Chemical Engineers Eli Lilly and Company Ltd British Society for Antimicrobial Surface Science Natural History Museum Medical Research Council Chemotherapy C-Tech Innovation Royal Society of Chemistry Merck Sharp & Dohme Economic and Social Research STFC The Physiological Society Council Industrial Policy and Research Plymouth Marine Sciences Partnership EngineeringUK Sustainability AIRTO Royal Institution The Food and Environment Research The British Ecological Society C-Tech Innovation Society of Biology Agency CABI Economic and Social Research UFAW Institution of Civil Engineers C-Tech Innovation Council Institution of Chemical Engineers EPSRC GAMBICA Association Ltd Motor Vehicles Institution of Engineering and The Food and Environment Research Institution of Civil Engineers Institution of Engineering Designers Technology Agency Institution of Engineering and London Metropolitan Polymer Centre NESTA The Geological Society Technology Prospect Institution of Chemical Engineers The Royal Academy of Engineering Oceanography Royal Society of Chemistry Institution of Civil Engineers Semta AMSI Society of Biology The Linnean Society of London STFC The Geological Society London Metropolitan Polymer Centre National Physical Laboratory Quality Management Plymouth Marine Sciences Partnership Information Services Natural Environment Research Council GAMBICA Association Ltd Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew AIRTO Plymouth Marine Sciences Partnership LGC Royal Society of Chemistry CABI National Physical Laboratory Society of Biology Oil IT, Internet, Telecommunications, The Geological Society Radiation Hazards Technology Transfer Computing and Electronics Institution of Chemical Engineers Institution of Engineering and AIRTO EPSRC LGC Technology CABI Institution of Civil Engineers LGC C-Tech Innovation Institution of Engineering and Particle Physics The Food and Environment Research Technology Institute of Physics Science Policy Agency National Physical Laboratory STFC ABPI Institute of Measurement and Control STFC Academy of Medical Sciences Institution of Engineering and Patents Biochemical Society Technology Intellectual Property The Chartered Institute of Patent The British Ecological Society LGC ABPI Attorneys British Nutrition Foundation London Metropolitan Polymer Centre The Chartered Institute of Patent NESTA British Pharmacological Society NESTA Attorneys British Science Association National Physical Laboratory C-Tech Innovation Pharmaceuticals CABI Research Councils UK Eli Lilly and Company Ltd ABPI Clifton Scientific Trust Royal Society of Chemistry NESTA British Pharmacological Society C-Tech Innovation STFC British Society for Antimicrobial Economic and Social Research Large-Scale Research Facilities Chemotherapy Council Tropical Medicine C-Tech Innovation C-Tech Innovation Eli Lilly and Company Ltd Natural History Museum The Food and Environment Research Eli Lilly and Company Ltd EPSRC Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Agency Institution of Chemical Engineers EngineeringUK Society for Applied Microbiology London Metropolitan Polymer Centre LGC The Food and Environment Research Society for General Microbiology National Physical Laboratory Merck Sharp & Dohme Agency Natural History Museum PHARMAQ Ltd GAMBICA Association Ltd Viruses STFC Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Institute of Physics ABPI Royal Society of Chemistry Institution of Chemical Engineers Society for Applied Microbiology Lasers Society of Biology Institution of Civil Engineers Society for General Microbiology Institute of Physics Institution of Engineering and National Physical Laboratory Physical Sciences Technology Water STFC Cavendish Laboratory LGC AMSI C-Tech Innovation Medical Research Council C-Tech Innovation Manufacturing EPSRC NESTA The Geological Society ABPI The Geological Society National Physical Laboratory Institute of Measurement and Control AMSI London Metropolitan Polymer Centre The Physiological Society Institution of Chemical Engineers EPSRC National Physical Laboratory Plymouth Marine Sciences Partnership Institution of Civil Engineers GAMBICA Association Ltd Prospect LGC Institution of Chemical Engineers Physics Research Councils UK Plymouth Marine Sciences Partnership Institution of Engineering Designers Cavendish Laboratory The Royal Academy of Engineering Royal Society of Chemistry Institution of Engineering and C-Tech Innovation Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Society for Applied Microbiology Technology Institute of Physics Royal Institution Society for General Microbiology Institution of Mechanical Engineers National Physical Laboratory The Royal Society Society of Biology London Metropolitan Polymer Centre STFC Royal Society of Chemistry National Physical Laboratory STFC Wildlife Semta Pollution and Waste Society of Biology The British Ecological Society ABPI UFAW The Food and Environment Research Materials AMSI Agency C-Tech Innovation C-Tech Innovation Sensors and Transducers The Linnean Society of London Institution of Chemical Engineers The Geological Society AMSI Natural History Museum Institution of Engineering Designers Institution of Chemical Engineers C-Tech Innovation Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew London Metropolitan Polymer Centre Institution of Civil Engineers GAMBICA Association Ltd Society of Biology National Physical Laboratory London Metropolitan Polymer Centre Institute of Measurement and Control UFAW Royal Society of Chemistry National Physical Laboratory Institution of Engineering and Semta Natural Environment Research Council Technology STFC Plymouth Marine Sciences Partnership STFC

Medical and Biomedical Research Psychology SSSIs ABPI The British Psychological Society The Geological Society Academy of Medical Sciences Economic and Social Research Council Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Biochemical Society British Pharmacological Society Public Policy Statistics British Society for Antimicrobial Biochemical Society Economic and Social Research Council Chemotherapy The British Ecological Society EPSRC CABI British Nutrition Foundation EngineeringUK Royal Statistical Society

56 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:58 Page 59

Research Councils UK Contact: Alexandra Saxon Head of Communications Research Councils UK Polaris House North Star Avenue Swindon SN2 1ET

Tel: 01793 444592 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.rcuk.ac.uk

Each year the Research Councils invest around £3 billion in research covering the full spectrum of academic disciplines from the medical and biological sciences to astronomy, physics, chemistry and engineering, social sciences, economics, environmental sciences and the arts and humanities. Research Councils UK is the strategic partnerships of the seven Research Councils. It aims to: • increase the collective visibility, leadership and influence of the Research Councils for the benefit of the UK; • lead in shaping the overall portfolio of research funded by the Research Councils to maximise the excellence and impact of UK research, and help to ensure that the UK gets the best value for money from its investment; • ensure joined-up operations between the Research Councils to achieve its goals and improve services to the communities it sponsors and works with.

Biotechnology Economic and and Biological Social Research Sciences Research Council Council (BBSRC) Contact: Jacky Clake, Head of Communications Contact: Jenny Aranha, and Public Engagement, Public Affairs Manager, Contact: Matt Goode Economic and Social Research Council, EPSRC, Polaris House, Head of Corporate Communications Polaris House, North Star Avenue, North Star Avenue, Swindon SN2 1ET BBSRC, Polaris House, North Star Avenue Swindon SN2 1UJ Tel: 01793 442892 Swindon SN2 1UH. Tel: 01793 413299 Tel: 01793 413117 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] Website:www.epsrc.ac.uk Website: www.bbsrc.ac.uk http://www.esrc.ac.uk EPSRC is the UK’s main agency for funding research The ESRC is the UK’s leading research and training BBSRC is the UK’s principal public funder of in engineering and physical sciences, investing agency addressing economic and social concerns. research and research training across the around £800m a year in research and postgraduate We pursue excellence in social science research; training, to help the nation handle the next biosciences. BBSRC provides institute strategic work to increase the impact of our research on generation of technological change. research grants to eight centres, as well as policy and practice; and provide trained social The areas covered range from information supporting research and training in universities scientists who meet the needs of users and technology to structural engineering, and across the UK. BBSRC’s research underpins beneficiaries, thereby contributing to the economic mathematics to materials science. This research competitiveness of the United Kingdom, the advances in a wide range of bio-based industries, forms the basis for future economic development in effectiveness of public services and policy, and the UK and improvements for everyone’s health, and contributes knowledge to policy areas which quality of life. The ESRC is independent, established lifestyle and culture. EPSRC works alongside other include: food security, climate change, diet and by Royal Charter in 1965, and funded mainly by Research Councils with responsibility for other areas health and healthy ageing. government. of research.

Medical Natural Science & Research Environment Technology Council Research Council Facilities Council Contact: Sophie Broster-James, Public Contact: Judy Parker Mark Foster Affairs and External Comms Manager Head of Communications Public Affairs Manager 14th Floor, One Kemble Street, London Polaris House, North Star Avenue Rutherford Appleton Laboratory WC2B 4AN. Swindon SN2 1EU Harwell Science & Innovation Campus Tel: 020 7395 2275 Fax: 020 7395 2421 Tel: 01793 411646 Fax: 01793 411510 Didcot OX11 0QX E-mail: sophie.broster- E-mail: [email protected] Tel: 01235 778328 Fax: 01235 445 808 [email protected] Website: www.nerc.ac.uk E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.mrc.ac.uk Website: www.stfc.ac.uk The UK’s Natural Environment Research Council For almost 100 years, the MRC has been improving the funds and carries out impartial scientific research in Formed by Royal Charter in 2007, the Science and health of people in the UK and around the world by the sciences of the environment. NERC trains the Technology Facilities Council is one of Europe’s largest multidisciplinary research organisations supporting supporting the highest quality science on behalf of UK next generation of independent environmental scientists and engineers world-wide. The Council taxpayers. We work closely with the UK’s Health scientists. Departments, the NHS, medical research charities and operates world-class, large-scale research facilities and industry to ensure our research achieves maximum NERC funds research in universities and in a provides strategic advice to the UK Government on impact as well as being of excellent scientific quality. network of its own centres, which include: their development. The STFC partners in the UK’s two MRC-funded scientists have made some of the most British Antarctic Survey, British Geological National Science and Innovation Campuses. It also manages international research projects in support of a significant discoveries in medical science – from the link Survey, Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, and broad cross-section of the UK research community. The between smoking and cancer to the invention of National Oceanography Centre. Council directs, co-ordinates and funds research, therapeutic antibodies – benefiting millions of people. education and training.

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 57 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:58 Page 60

Association AIRTO of the British Contact: Professor Richard Brook OBE FREng Pharmaceutical AIRTO Ltd: Association of Independent Contact: Dr Helen Munn, Industry Research & Technology Organisations Limited Executive Director c/o The National Physical Laboratory Contact: Dr Allison Jeynes-Ellis Academy of Medical Sciences Hampton Road Medical & Innovation Director 41 Portland Place Teddington 12 Whitehall, London SW1A 2DY London W1B 1QH Middlesex TW11 0LW Tel: 020 7747 1408 Tel: 020 3176 2150 Tel: 020 8943 6600 Fax: 020 7747 1417 E-mail: [email protected] Fax: 020 8614 0470 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.acmedsci.ac.uk E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.abpi.org.uk Website: www.airto.co.uk

The ABPI is the voice of the innovative pharmaceutical AIRTO represents the UK’s independent research The Academy of Medical Sciences promotes industry, working with Government, regulators and other advances in medical science and campaigns to stakeholders to promote a receptive environment for a and technology sector - member organisations employ a combined staff of over 20,000 scientists ensure these are converted into healthcare benefits strong and progressive industry in the UK, one capable of providing the best medicines to patients. and engineers with a turnover exceeding £2 billion. for society. The Academy’s Fellows are the United The ABPI’s mission is to represent the pharmaceutical Work carried out by members includes research, Kingdom’s leading medical scientists and scholars industry operating in the UK in a way that: consultancy, training and global information from hospitals, academia, industry and the public • assures patient access to the best available medicine; monitoring. AIRTO promotes their work by building service. The Academy provides independent, • creates a favourable political and economic closer links between members and industry, environment; authoritative advice on public policy issues in academia, UK government agencies and the • encourages innovative research and development; medical science and healthcare. European Union. • affords fair commercial returns

Association Biochemical British Science of Marine Society Association Contact: Sir Roland Jackson Bt, Scientific Industries Contact: Dr Chris Kirk Chief Executive CEO Contact: John Murray British Science Association, The Biochemical Society Association of Marine Scientific Industries Wellcome Wolfson Building, 165 Queen’s Gate, 28-29 Threadneedle Street, Charles Darwin House London SW7 5HD. London EC2R 8AY 12 Roger Street E-mail: Tel: 020 7628 2555 Fax: 020 7638 4376 London WC1N 2JU [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Tel: 020 7685 2433 Website: www.britishscienceassociation.org Website: www.maritimeindustries.org Fax: 020 7685 2470 Our vision is a society in which people are able to The Association of Marine Scientific Industries The Biochemical Society exists to promote and access science, engage with it and feel a sense of (AMSI) is a constituent association of the Society of support the Molecular and Cellular Biosciences. We ownership about its direction. In such a society Maritime Industries (SMI) representing companies in have nearly 6000 members in the UK and abroad, science advances with, and because of, the the marine science and technology sector, mostly research bioscientists in Universities or in involvement and active support of the public. otherwise known as the oceanology sector. Industry. The Society is also a major scientific Established in 1831, the British Science Association The marine science sector has an increasingly publisher. In addition, we promote Science Policy is a registered charity which organises major important role to play both in the UK and globally, debate and provide resources, for teachers and initiatives across the UK, including National Science particularly in relation to the environment, security pupils, to support the bioscience curriculum in and Engineering Week, the British Science Festival, and defence, resource exploitation, and leisure. schools. Our membership supports our mission by programmes of regional and local events and the AMSI represents manufacturers, researchers, and organizing scientific meetings, sustaining our CREST programme for young people in schools and system suppliers providing a co-ordinated voice and publications through authorship and peer review colleges. We provide opportunities for all ages to enabling members to project their views and and by supporting our educational and policy discuss, investigate, explore and challenge science. capabilities to a wide audience. initiatives.

The British British Ecological Nutrition Society Foundation

The British Ecological Society Contact: Professor Judy Buttriss, Contact: Kate Baillie Contact: Ceri Margerison, Policy Manager Director General Chief Executive British Ecological Society 52-54 High Holborn, London WC1V 6RQ British Pharmacological Society 16 Angel Gate, City Road Charles Darwin House, 12 Roger Street, Tel: 020 7404 6504 London, WC1N 2JU London EC1V 2PT Fax: 020 7404 6747 Tel: 020 7417 0113 Tel: 020 7685 2500 Fax : 020 7685 2501 Email: [email protected] Website: www.BritishEcologicalSociety.org Fax: 020 7417 0114 Ecology into Policy Blog Websites: www.nutrition.org.uk Email: [email protected] http://britishecologicalsociety.org/blog/ www.foodafactoflife.org.uk Website: www.bps.ac.uk The British Pharmacological Society has been The British Ecological Society’s mission is to advance The British Nutrition Foundation (BNF) was ecology and make it count. The Society has 4,000 supporting pharmacology and pharmacologists for members worldwide. The BES publishes five established over 40 years ago and exists to deliver over 75 years. Our 2,700+ members, from internationally renowned scientific journals and authoritative, evidence-based information on food academia, industry and clinical practice, are trained organises the largest scientific meeting for ecologists in to study drug action from the laboratory bench to Europe. Through its grants, the BES also supports and nutrition in the context of health and lifestyle. the patient’s bedside. Our aim is to improve quality ecologists in developing countries and the provision of The Foundation’s work is conducted and of life by developing new medicines to treat and fieldwork in schools. The BES informs and advises prevent the diseases and conditions that affect communicated through a unique blend of Parliament and Government on ecological issues and millions of people and animals. Inquiries about welcomes requests for assistance from parliamentarians. nutrition science, education and media activities. drugs and how they work are welcome.

58 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:58 Page 61

British Society CABI Science and development The for Antimicrobial organization British Chemotherapy Psychological Mrs Tracey Guise Contact: Dr Joan Kelley, Executive Director, Executive Director Global Operations, CABI Society British Society for Antimicrobial Chemotherapy Bakeham Lane, Egham, Surrey TW20 9TY Contact: Lucy Chaplin Griffin House Tel: 01491 829306 Fax: 01491 829100 PR & Marketing Manager 53 Regent Place Email: [email protected] The British Psychological Society Birmingham B1 3NJ Website: www.cabi.org St Andrews House T: 0121 236 1988 CABI is an international not-for-profit development 48 Princess Road East W: www.bsac.org.uk organization, specializing in scientific publishing, Leicester LE1 7DR Founded in 1971, and with 800 members research and communication. We create, Tel: 0116 252 9910 worldwide, the Society exists to facilitate the communicate, and apply knowledge in order to Email: [email protected] acquisition and dissemination of knowledge in the improve people’s lives by finding sustainable Website: www.bps.org.uk field of antimicrobial chemotherapy. The BSAC solutions to agricultural and environmental issues. publishes the Journal of Antimicrobial The British Psychological Society is an organisation We work for and with universities, national research Chemotherapy (JAC), internationally renowned for of over 48,000 members governed by Royal and extension institutions, development agencies, its scientific excellence, undertakes a range of Charter. It maintains the Register of Chartered the private sector, governments, charities and Psychologists, publishes books, 11 primary science educational activities, awards grants for research foundations, farmers, and non-governmental Journals and organises conferences. Requests for and has active relationships with its peer groups organizations. We also manage one of the world’s information about psychology and psychologists and government. largest genetic resource collections: the UK’s from parliamentarians are welcome. National Collection of Fungus Cultures.

Cavendish Chartered Clifton Laboratory Institute of Scientific The Administrative Secretary, The Cavendish Laboratory, Patent Attorneys Trust J J Thomson Avenue, Cambridge CB3 0HE, UK. Contact: Michael Ralph - Secretary Contact: Dr Eric Albone E-mail: [email protected] The Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys Clifton Scientific Trust http://www.phy.cam.ac.uk 95 Chancery Lane, London WC2A 1DT 49 Northumberland Road, Bristol BS6 7BA The Cavendish Laboratory houses the Department of Physics Tel: 020 7405 9450 Tel: 0117 924 7664 Fax: 0117 924 7664 of the University of Cambridge. Fax: 020 7430 0471 E-mail: [email protected] The research programme covers the breadth of E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.clifton-scientific.org contemporary physics Website: www.cipa.org.uk Science for Citizenship and Employability, Extreme Universe: Astrophysics, cosmology and high CIPA’s members practise in intellectual property, Science for Life, Science for Real energy physics especially patents, trade marks, designs, and We build grass-roots partnerships between school and Quantum Universe: Cold atoms, condensed matter theory, copyright, either in private partnerships or industrial the wider world of professional science and its scientific computing, quantum matter and semiconductor applications physics companies. Through its new regulatory Board, CIPA maintains the statutory Register. It advises • for young people of all ages and abilities Materials Universe: Optoelectronics, nanophotonics, government and international circles on policy • experiencing science as a creative, questioning, detector physics, thin film magnetism, surface physics and human activity the Winton programme for the physics of sustainability issues and provides information services, promoting the benefits to UK industry of obtaining IP • bringing school science added meaning and Biological Universe: Physics of medicine, biological notivation, from primary to post-16 systems and soft matter protection, and to overseas industry of using British • locally, nationally, internationally attorneys to obtain international protection. The Laboratory has world-wide collaborations with other (currently between Britain and Japan) universities and industry Clifton Scientific Trust Ltd is registered charity 1086933

C-Tech Eli Lilly and Innovation Company Limited Ltd Contact: Thom Thorp, Head External Affairs Contact: Miriam Laverick Contact: Paul Radage Tel: 01256 315000 PR and Communications Manager Capenhurst Technology Park, Fax: 01256 775858 EngineeringUK Capenhurst, Chester, Cheshire CH1 6EH Eli Lilly and Company Ltd, Lilly House Weston House, 246 High Holborn Tel: +44 (0) 151 347 2900 Priestley Road, Basingstoke, Hants, London WC1V 7EX Fax: +44 (0) 151 347 2901 RG24 9NL Tel: 020 3206 0444 E-mail: [email protected] Email. [email protected] Fax: 020 3206 0401 Website: www.ctechinnovation.com Website: www.lilly.co.uk E-mail: MLaverick@engineeringuk.com Leading innovation management and Lilly UK is the UK affiliate of a major American Website: www.EngineeringUK.com technology development company. pharmaceutical manufacturer, Eli Lilly and Company of Indianapolis. This affiliate is one of the UK’s top EngineeringUK is an independent organisation that We help companies, universities, government bodies pharmaceutical companies with significant promotes the vital role of engineers, engineering and non-governmental organisations to benefit and investment in science and technology including a and technology in our society. EngineeringUK grow through innovation. Vast experience of project neuroscience research and development centre and partners business and industry, Government and the and programme management, implementation of bulk biotechnology manufacturing operations. wider science and technology community: novel technologies, contract and collaborative Lilly medicines treat schizophrenia, diabetes, cancer, producing evidence on the state of engineering; research and technology development, business and osteoporosis, attention deficit hyperactivity sharing knowledge within engineering, and technology consultancy, commercialization, IP disorder, erectile dysfunction, severe sepsis, inspiring young people to choose a career in exploitation, market and sector research. depression, bipolar disorder, heart disease and engineering, matching employers’ demand for www.ctechinnovation.com many other diseases. skills.

Science in Parliament Vol 67 No 2 Whitsun 2010 59 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:58 Page 62

The Food and GAMBICA The Environment Association Ltd Geological Research Agency Society Contact: Professor Robert Edwards Chief Scientist Contact: Dr Graeme Philp Contact: Nic Bilham The Food and Environment Research Agency Broadwall House Head of Strategy and External Relations Sand Hutton, York, YO41 1LZ 21 Broadwall Burlington House Tel: 01904 462415 London SE1 9PL Piccadilly Fax: 01904 462486 Tel: 020 7642 8080 London W1J 0BG E-mail: [email protected] Fax: 020 7642 8096 Tel: 020 7434 9944 Website: www.defra.gov.uk/fera E-mail: [email protected] Fax: 020 7439 8975 Website: www.gambica.org.uk E-mail: [email protected] The Food and Environment Research Agency’s over Website: www.geolsoc.org.uk GAMBICA Association is the UK trade association arching purpose is to support and develop a for instrumentation, control, automation and The Geological Society is the national learned and sustainable food chain, a healthy natural laboratory technology. The association seeks to professional body for Earth sciences, with 10,000 environment, and to protect the global community promote the successful development of the industry Fellows (members) worldwide. The Fellowship from biological and chemical risks. and assist its member companies through a broad encompasses those working in industry, academia range of services, including technical policy and and government, with a wide range of perspectives Our role within that is to provide robust evidence, standards, commercial issues, market data and and views on policy-relevant science, and the rigorous analysis and professional advice to export services. Society is a leading communicator of this science to Government, international organisations and the government bodies and other non-technical private sector. audiences.

Institute of Food The Institute of Science & Measurement Technology and Control Contact: Joseph Winters 76 Portland Place, London W1B 1NT Contact: Angela Winchester Contact: Mr Peter Martindale, Tel: 020 7470 4815 5 Cambridge Court CEO and Secretary E-mail: [email protected] 210 Shepherds Bush Road The Institute of Measurement and Control Website: www.iop.org London W6 7NJ 87 Gower Street, London WC1E 6AF Tel: 020 7603 6316 Tel: +44 (0) 20 73874949 Fax: 020 7602 9936 Fax: +44 (0) 20 73888431 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] The Institute of Physics is a scientific charity Website: www.ifst.org Website: www.instmc.org.uk devoted to increasing the practice, Reg Charity number: 269815 understanding and application of physics. It has IFST is the independent qualifying body for food professionals in Europe. Membership is drawn from The Institute of Measurement and Control provides a a worldwide membership of more than 40,000 forum for personal contact amongst practiioners, all over the world from backgrounds including and is a leading communicator of physics- industry, universities, government, research and publishes learned papers and is a professional development and food law enforcement. examining and qualifying organisation able to confer related science to all audiences, from specialists the titles EurIng, CEng, IEng, EngTech; Companies and IFST’s activities focus on disseminating knowledge through to government and the general public. Universities may apply to become Companions. relating to food science and technology and Its publishing company, IOP Publishing, is a promoting its application. Another important Headquartered in London, the Institute has a strong world leader in scientific publishing and the element of our work is to promote and uphold regional base with 15 UK, 1 Hong Kong and 1 Malaysia standards amongst food professionals. Local Section, a bilateral agreement with the China electronic dissemination of physics. Instrument Society and other major international links.

Institute of Institution Physics and of Civil Engineering Engineers

in Medicine Contact: Vernon Hunte, Public Affairs Manager, Contact: Robert Neilson, General Secretary One Great George Street, Westminster, Fairmount House, 230 Tadcaster Road, IChemE is the hub for chemical, London SW1P 3AA, UK York, YO24 1ES biochemical and process engineering Tel: 020 7665 2265 Tel: 01904 610821 Fax: 01904 612279 professionals worldwide. We Fax: 020 7222 0973 E-mail: [email protected] are the heart of the process E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.ipem.ac.uk community, promoting competence and a commitment to sustainable Website: www.ice.org.uk IPEM is a registered, incorporated charity for the development, advancing the discipline advancement, in the public interest, of physics and for the benefit of society and supporting ICE aims to be a leading voice in infrastructure engineering applied to medicine and biology. It the professional development of over issues. With over 80,000 members, ICE acts as a accredits medical physicists, clinical engineers and knowledge exchange for all aspects of civil clinical technologists through its membership 32,000 members. engineering. As a Learned Society, the Institution register, organises training and CPD for them, and Contact: Andrew Furlong, Director provides opportunities for the dissemination of provides expertise, in the form of reports, evidence t: +44 (0)1788 534484 knowledge through publications and scientific and comment, on a wide range of subjects f: +44 (0)1788 560833 meetings. IPEM is licensed by the Science Council to including infrastructure, energy generation and e: [email protected] award CSci and by the Engineering Council to supply, climate change and sustainable award CEng, IEng and EngTech. www.icheme.org development.

60 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:58 Page 63

Institution of Institution of Engineering Mechanical Designers Engineers

Contact: Libby Brodhurst Contact: Richard Campbell Contact: Paul Davies 1 Birdcage Walk Courtleigh IET, Westbury Leigh London SW1H 9JJ Michael Faraday House, Tel: 020 7973 1293 Westbury Six Hills Way, Wiltshire BA13 3TA E-mail: [email protected] Stevenage, Website: www.imeche.org Tel: 01373 822801 SG1 2AY Fax: 01373 858085 Tel: +44(0) 1438 765687 E-mail: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Website: www.ied.org.uk Web: www.theiet.org The Institution provides politicians and civil servants with information, expertise and advice on a diverse The only professional membership body solely for those working in engineering and technological The IET is a world leading professional organisation, range of subjects, focusing on manufacturing, product design. Engineering Council and Chartered sharing and advancing knowledge to promote energy, environment, transport and education Environmentalist registration for suitably qualified science, engineering and technology across the policy. We regularly publish policy statements and members. Membership includes experts on a wide world. Dating back to 1871, the IET has 150,000 host political briefings and policy events to establish range of engineering and product design members in 127 countries with offices in Europe, disciplines, all of whom practise, manage or a working relationship between the engineering educate in design. North America, and Asia-Pacific. profession and parliament.

LGC London Metropolitan Queens Road, Teddington Middlesex, TW11 0LY Polymer Centre Tel: +44 (0)20 8943 7000 The Linnean Society of London Sir John Cass Faculty of Art, Media & Design Fax: +44 (0)20 8943 2767 Contact: Dr Ruth Temple, Executive Secretary Contact: Alison Green, E-mail: [email protected] Burlington House London Metropolitan University Website: www.lgc.co.uk Piccadilly 41-71 Commercial Road, London, E1 1LA London W1J 0BF LGC is an international science-based company and Tel: 020 7320 1882 market leader in the provision of analytical, forensic E-mail: [email protected] Tel: 020 7434 4479 and diagnostic services and reference standards to Website: www.polymers.org.uk customers in the public and private sectors. Fax: 020 7287 9364 E-mail: [email protected] The London Metropolitan Polymer Centre provides Under the Government Chemist function, LGC Website: www.linnean.org training, consultancy and applied research to the fulfils specific statutory duties as the referee analyst UK polymer (plastics & rubber) industry. LMPC is and provides advice for Government and the wider The Linnean Society of London is the world’s oldest one of the departments within the Sir John Cass analytical community on the implications of active biological society. Founded in 1788, the Faculty of Art, Media & Design (JCAMD) and analytical chemistry for matters of policy, standards Society takes its name from the Swedish naturalist provides a broad perspective of materials science and regulation. LGC is also the UK’s designated Carl Linnaeus whose botanical, zoological and and technology for the manufacturing and creative National Measurement Institute for chemical and library collections have been in its keeping since industries. JCAMD contains Met Works, a unique biochemical analysis. 1829. The Society continues to play a central role in Digital Manufacturing Centre, providing new With headquarters in Teddington, South West the documentation of the world’s flora and fauna, technology for rapid prototyping and manufacture. London, LGC has 29 laboratories and centres across recognising the continuing importance of such The Faculty will offer short courses in a range of Europe and at sites in China, Brazil, India and the work to many scientific issues. polymer, rapid prototyping and practical areas. US.

The National National Endowment Physical Contact: Margaret Beer/Rob Pinnock for Science, Technology Laboratory Licensing & External Research, Europe Hertford Road and the Arts Contact: Fiona Auty Hoddesdon Contact: Madeleine Hallward National Physical Laboratory Herts EN11 9BU Head of Public Affairs Hampton Road, Teddington Tel: 01992 452840 1 Plough Place Middlesex TW11 0LW Fax: 01992 441907 London EC4A1DE Tel: 020 8977 3222 e-mail: [email protected] / Tel: 020 7438 2615 Website: www.npl.co.uk/contact-us [email protected] Fax: 020 7438 2501 www.merck.com Email: [email protected] The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is the United Website: www.nesta.org.uk Kingdom’s national measurement institute, an MSD is a tradename of Merck & Co., Inc., with NESTA is the National Endowment for Science, Technology internationally respected and independent centre of headquarters in Whitehouse Station, N.J., U.S.A. and the Arts – an independent organisation with a mission excellence in research, development and to make the UK more innovative. It operates in three main knowledge transfer in measurement and materials MSD is an innovative, global health care leader that ways: by investing in early-stage companies; informing science. For more than a century, NPL has is committed to improving health and well-being and shaping policy; and delivering practical programmes developed and maintained the nation’s primary around the world. MSD discovers, develops, that inspire others to solve the big challenges of the future. NESTA’s expertise in this field makes it uniquely measurement standards - the heart of an manufactures, and markets vaccines, medicines, qualified to understand how the application of innovative infrastructure designed to ensure accuracy, and consumer and animal health products designed approaches can help the UK to tackle two of the biggest consistency and innovation in physical to help save and improve lives. challenges it faces: the economic downturn and the measurement. radical reform of public services.

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 61 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:58 Page 64

Natural The Nutrition History Society Museum The Science of Nature Contact: Frederick Wentworth-Bowyer, PHARMAQ Ltd Chief Executive, The Nutrition Society, Contact: Joe Baker 10 Cambridge Court, 210 Shepherds Bush Road Special Adviser to the Director London W6 7NJ Contact: Dr Benjamin P North Tel: +44 (0)20 7602 0228 Natural History Museum Fax: +44 (0)20 7602 1756 PHARMAQ Ltd Cromwell Road, London SW7 5BD Email: [email protected] Unit 15 Sandleheath Industrial Estate Tel: +44 (0)20 7942 5478 www.nutritionsociety.org Fordingbridge Fax: +44 (0)20 7942 5075 Founded in 1941, The Nutrition Society is the premier Hants SP6 1PA. E-mail: [email protected] scientific body dedicated to advance the scientific study Tel: 01425 656081 of nutrition and its application to the maintenance of Fax: 01425 657992 Website: www.nhm.ac.uk human and animal health. E-mail: [email protected] Highly regarded by the scientific community, the Society We maintain and develop the collections we care for and is the largest learned society for nutrition in Europe. Website: www.pharmaq.no use them to promote the discovery, understanding, Membership is worldwide and is open to those with a Web shop: www.pharmaqwebshop.co.uk/shop responsible use and enjoyment of the natural world. genuine interest in the science of human or animal We are part of the UK's science base as a major science nutrition. Principal activities include: PHARMAQ is the only global pharmaceutical infrastructure which is used by our scientists and others from 1. Disseminating scientific information through its company with a primary focus on aquaculture. across the UK and the globe working together to enhance programme of scientific meetings and publications knowledge on the diversity of the natural world. Specialising in the supply of veterinary 2. Publishing internationally renowned scientific learned pharmaceuticals for the salmon and trout farming Our value to society is vested in our research responses to journals, and textbooks challenges facing the natural world today, in engaging our industries including vaccines, anaesthetics, visitors in the science of nature, in inspiring and training the 3. Promoting the education and training of nutritionists antibiotics and sea lice treatments. In the UK we next generation of scientists and in being a major cultural 4. Engaging with external organisations and the public to also support an extensive range of biocides and tourist destination. promote good nutritional science cage and aviary products.

The Physiological Society Prospect

Contact: Rosie Carr Contact: Sue Ferns, Contact: Dr Philip Wright The Laboratory, Citadel Hill Prospect Head of Research and Specialist Chief Executive Plymouth PL1 2PB Services, New Prospect House Peer House, Verulam Street Tel: +44 (0)1752 633 234 8 Leake St, London SE1 7NN London WC1X 8LZ Fax: +44 (0)1752 633 102 Tel: 020 7902 6639 Fax: 020 7902 6637 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Tel:+44 (0) 20 7269 5716 Website: www.pmsp.org.uk www.prospect.org.uk Fax: +44 (0) 20 7269 5720 E-mail: [email protected] The Plymouth Marine Sciences Partnership Prospect is an independent, thriving and forward- Website: www.physoc.org comprises seven leading marine science and looking trade union with 122,000 members across technology institutions, representing one of the the private and public sectors and a diverse range of occupations. We represent scientists, technologists Physiology is the science of how humans and other largest regional clusters of expertise in marine and other professions in the civil service, research animals function in an integrated way and is the sciences, education, engineering and technology in Europe. The mission of PMSP is to deliver world- councils and private sector. basis for many biological and clinical sciences. class marine research and teaching, to advance Founded in 1876, The Physiological Society is a Prospect’s collective voice champions the interests of knowledge, technology and understanding of the the engineering and scientific community to key learned society with over 2,900 Members drawn seas. PMSP research addresses the fundamental opinion-formers and policy makers. With from over 60 countries. The majority of Members understanding of marine ecosystems and processes negotiating rights with over 300 employers, we seek are engaged in research, in universities or industry, that must be applied in support and development to secure a better life at work by putting members’ of policy, marine and maritime industry and marine into how the body works. pay, conditions and careers first. biotechnology.

Royal Botanic The Royal Gardens, Kew Institution RBG Kew is a centre of global expertise in plant and Contact: Dr Gail Cardew fungal diversity, conservation and sustainable use Head of Programmes housed in two world-class gardens. Kew receives The Royal Institution approximately half of its funding from government 21 Albemarle Street, London W1S 4BS through Defra. Kew’s Breathing Planet Programme has Contact: Iffat Memon seven key priorities: Tel: 020 7409 2992 Fax: 020 7670 2920 Public Affairs Manager • Accelerating discovery and global access to plant E-mail: [email protected] The Royal Academy of Engineering and fungal diversity information Website: www.rigb.org 3 Carlton House Terrace • Mapping and prioritising habitats most at risk Twitter: rigb_science London SW1Y 5DG • Conserving what remains The core activities of the Royal Institution centre Tel: 020 7766 0653 • Sustainable local use around four main themes: science education, E-mail: [email protected] • Banking 25% of plant species in the Millennium Website: www.raeng.org.uk Seed Bank Partnership science communication, research and heritage. It is perhaps best known for the Ri Christmas Lectures, Founded in 1976, The Royal Academy of Engineering • Restoration ecology but it also has a major Public Events Programme promotes the engineering and technological welfare • Inspiring through botanic gardens designed to connect people to the world of science, of the country. Our activities – led by the UK’s most Contact: The Director’s Office eminent engineers – develop the links between Tel: 020 8332 5112 as well as a UK-wide Young People’s Programme of engineering, technology, and the quality of life. As a Fax: 020 8332 5109 science and mathematics enrichment activities. Email: [email protected] national academy, we provide impartial advice to Website: www.kew.org Internationally recognised research programmes in Government; work to secure the next generation of bio- and nanomagnetism take place in the Davy Inspiring and delivering science-based plant engineers; and provide a voice for Britain’s Faraday Research Laboratory. engineering community. conservation worldwide, enhancing the quality of life

62 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:58 Page 65

The Royal The Royal Society Statistical The Royal Society Contact: Dr Peter Cotgreave Society Director of Public Affairs of Chemistry The Royal Society, 6-9 Carlton House Terrace Contact: Mr Andrew Garratt London SW1Y 5AG. Contact: Dr Stephen Benn Press and Public Affairs Manager Tel: 020 7451 2502 Fax: 020 7930 2170 Parliamentary Affairs The Royal Statistical Society Email: [email protected] The Royal Society of Chemistry 12 Errol Sreet, London EC1Y 8LX. Website: www.royalsociety.org Burlington House, Piccadilly, London W1J 0BA Tel: +44 20 7614 3920 Tel: 020 7437 8656 Fax: 020 7734 1227 Fax: +44 20 7614 3905 The Royal Society is the UK academy of science E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] comprising 1400 outstanding individuals Website: http://www.rsc.org Website: www.rss.org.uk representing the sciences, engineering and http://www.chemsoc.org medicine. The strategic priorities for our work at The Royal Statistical Society is a leading source of national and international levels are to: The Royal Society of Chemistry is a learned, independent advice, comment and discussion on • Invest in future scientific leaders and in innovation professional and scientific body of over 46,000 statistical issues. It promotes public understanding • Influence policymaking with the best scientific members with a duty under its Royal Charter “to of statistics and acts as an advocate for the interests advice serve the public interest”. It is active in the areas of of statisticians and users of statistics. The Society • Invigorate science and mathematics education education and qualifications, science policy, actively contributes to government consultations, • Increase access to the best science internationally publishing, Europe, information and internet Royal Commissions, parliamentary select committee services, media relations, public understanding of inquiries, and to the legislative process. In 2009, the • Inspire an interest in the joy, wonder and science, advice and assistance to Parliament and excitement of scientific discovery. RSS celebrated 175 years since its foundation in Government. 1834.

Semta Society for the Sector Skills Council Applied for Science, Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies Microbiology Contact: Dariel Burdass Marlborough House, Basingstoke Road, Contact: Philip Wheat Contact: Customer Services Spencers Wood, Reading RG7 1AG. Society for Applied Microbiology 14 Upton Road Bedford Heights, Brickhill Drive Tel: 0118 988 1802 Fax: 0118 988 5656 Watford Bedford MK41 7PH E-mail: [email protected] WD18 0JT Tel: 01234 326661 Website: www.sgm.ac.uk Tel: 0845 643 9001 Fax: 01234 326678 SGM is the largest microbiological society in Fax: 01923 256086 E-mail: [email protected] Europe. The Society publishes four journals of E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.sfam.org.uk Website: www.semta.org.uk international standing, and organises regular scientific meetings. Semta’s skills service for UK science, engineering SfAM is the oldest UK microbiological society and SGM also promotes education and careers in and manufacturing employers aims to advance, for the benefit of the public, the • Training needs assessment against a company’s science of microbiology in its application to the microbiology, and it is committed to represent business objectives. environment, human and animal health, agriculture microbiology to government, the media and the • Quality programmes from The National Skills and industry. public. Academy for Manufacturing SfAM is the voice of applied microbiology with An information service on microbiological issues • A training management service. members across the globe and works in partnership concerning aspects of medicine, agriculture, food • Access to available funding and accredited training with sister organisations to exert influence on safety, biotechnology and the environment is providers. policy-makers world-wide. available on request. • Research into training needs to influence governments’ support for skills strategies

Society Society of Universities of Biology Cosmetic Federation Scientists for Animal Welfare Contact: Dr Mark Downs Contact: Dr James Kirkwood Chief Executive Chief Executive and Scientific Director Charles Darwin House Contact: Gem Bektas, Secretary General The Old School, Brewhouse Hill 12 Roger Street Society of Cosmetic Scientists Wheathampstead, Herts. AL4 8AN. London WC1N 2JU Langham House East Tel: 01582 831818. Fax: 01582 831414. Tel: 020 7685 2550 Suite 6, Mill Street, Luton LU1 2NA Email: [email protected] Tel: 01582 726661 Website: www.ufaw.org.uk Fax: 01582 405217 Registered in England Charity No: 207996 The Society of Biology is a single unified voice for E-mail: [email protected] UFAW is an international, independent scientific biology: advising Government and influencing Website: www.scs.org.uk policy; advancing education and professional and educational animal welfare charity. It works to improve animal lives by: development; supporting our members, and Advancing the science of cosmetics is the primary objective of the SCS. Cosmetic science covers a wide engaging and encouraging public interest in the life • supporting animal welfare research. range of disciplines from organic and physical • educating and raising awareness of welfare sciences. The Society represents a diverse chemistry to biology and photo-biology, dermatology, issues in the UK and overseas. membership of over 80,000 - including, students, microbiology, physical sciences and psychology. • producing the leading journal Animal Welfare practising scientists and interested non- Members are scientists and the SCS helps them and other high-quality publications on animal professionals - as individuals, or through learned progress their careers and the science of cosmetics care and welfare. societies and other organisations. ethically and responsibly. Services include publications, educational courses and scientific • providing expert advice to government meetings. departments and other concerned bodies.

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 63 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:58 Page 66

SCIENCE DIARY

THE PARLIAMENTARY AND THE LIVERY COMMITTEE OF THE Thursday 7 July 19.00-20.30 SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE CITY OF LONDON CORPORATION, Aping mankind: neuromania, darwinitis Contact: Annabel Lloyd INCLUDING THE WORSHIPFUL and the misrepresentation of mankind Tel: 020 7222 7085 COMPANY OF ENGINEERS Raymond Tallis delivers a devastating [email protected] critique on pseudo-Darwinian thought that is parliamentaryandscientificcommittee@ Monday 6 - Friday 10 June 10.00-18.00 increasingly dominating discussion of what hotmail.org.uk daily we humans are. www.scienceinparliament.org.uk Livery Exhibition explaining the work of the Livery Companies, including their Saturday 30 July 11.00-16.00 Tuesday 17 May 17.30 involvement with science Family Fun Day: Waves Discussion Meeting Upper Waiting Hall, House of Commons What are some examples of different types Boothroyd Room, Portcullis House of waves? Light, sound, water, and many Strategic Metals: How can geoscience ______more. help increase resources? How will a THE ROYAL INSTITUTION Tickets: £10/£5 (under 18s). supply shortage impact on the UK? 21 Albemarle Street Faraday Members free. Speakers: Andrew Bloodworth, British London W1S 4BS. Two free under 18 tickets for Ri Members Geological Survey; Hazel Prichard, Mineral Deposits Studies Group, The Geological All events take place at the Royal Institution. ______Society; and Anthony Hartwell, Unless otherwise stated tickets cost £10 THE ROYAL SOCIETY Environmental Sustainability KTN standard, £7 concessions, £5 Ri Members. The Royal Society hosts a series of free For more information and to book tickets events, both evening lectures and two-day discussion meetings, covering the whole Tuesday 14 June 16.30 visit www.rigb.org breadth of science, engineering and Boothroyd Room, Portcullis House The Annual General Meeting Saturday 4 June 11.00-16.00 technology. followed at 17.30 by Discussion Meeting Family Fun Day: Forensic Science Nuclear Industry Get hands on with the science of crime All Royal Society lectures are available from Speakers to be confirmed busting. the Royal Society website. The collection Tickets: £10/£5 (under 18s). includes over 200 lectures with speakers including David Attenborough, Ottoline Tuesday 12th July 17.30 Faraday Members free. Discussion Meeting Two free under-18 tickets for Ri Members Leyser and James Lovelock. Details of all of Boothroyd Room, Portcullis House these plus our forthcoming events What does the Future hold for Pharma Wednesday 8 June 19.00-20.30 programme can be found at royalsociety.org in the UK? Nurturing ideas that matter Speakers to be confirmed From the Spitfire to the “knockout mouse”, ______important technologies often begin by THE ROYAL ACADEMY OF Tuesday 18 October 17.30 looking like crazy long-shots. Yet today’s long ENGINEERING Discussion Meeting shots are more expensive and more 3 Carlton House Terrace Topic to be chosen in conjunction with the complex than ever before. Tim Harford London SW1Y 5DG Royal Academy of Engineering examines the evidence that technological www.raeng.org.uk/events or progress may actually be slowing down. [email protected] Tuesday 22 November 17.30 020 7766 0600 Discussion Meeting Thursday 23 June 19.00-20.30 Scientific Freedom The origin of our species ______Chris Stringer sets out to answer some of THE ROYAL SOCIETY OF ______the big questions in the debates about our CHEMISTRY evolution. For details please contact Dr Stephen Benn [email protected] Thursday 30 June 19.00-20.30 Defeating ageing with regenerative ______medicine 90% of Westerners die of ageing. Is a ‘cure’ just around the corner? Aubrey de Grey claims regenerative medicine for ageing is coming.

64 Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:58 Page 67

OFFICERS OF THE PARLIAMENTARY & SCIENTIFIC ROYAL SOCIETY OF EDINBURGH ROYAL PHARMACEUTICAL COMMITTEE 22-26 George Street SOCIETY Edinburgh EH2 2PQ [email protected] Tel: 0131 240 5000 Tel: 0845 257 2570 President: The Rt Hon the Lord Jenkin [email protected] www.rpharms.com of Roding Chairman: Mr Andrew Miller MP www.royalsoced.org.uk Deputy Chairman: Mr Tom Blenkinsop MP Thursday 16 June Hon Treasurer: The Lord Willis of ______Analytical methods to combat the Knaresborough BRITISH SCIENCE ASSOCIATION counterfeiting of medicines Hon Secretary: Mr Stephen Mosley MP Joint Pharmaceutical Analysis Group Vice-Presidents: Dr David Dent Wednesday 25 and Thursday 26 May At GSK R&D, Stevenage Professor Peter Saunders Science Communication Conference Mr Robert Freer At Kings Place, London. Thursday 7 July Professor Julia King CBE FREng Every year, the national two-day Science Best practice for outsourcing of Dr Douglas Naysmith Communication Conference addresses the analytical support and use of contract Dr Desmond Turner key issues facing science communicators in laboratories Mr Robert Key Professor Alan Malcolm the UK and brings together people involved Joint Pharmaceutical Analysis Group Mr Paul Ridout in public engagement. For more information At the Royal Astronomical Society, London Advisory Panel: Dr Robert Kirby-Harris go to: www.britishscienceassociation. Mr Philip Greenish CBE org/sciencecommunicationconference ______Dr Stephen Benn THE LINNEAN SOCIETY OF Secretariat: Professor Peter Simpson Tuesday 21 June to Thursday 14 July LONDON Mrs Annabel Lloyd The Big Bang Regional Fairs Burlington House The 2011-12 round of the National Science Piccadilly & Engineering Competition has now London W1J 0BF opened. Big Bang Fairs are taking place in Tel: +44 (0)20 7434 4479 ext 11 SCIENCE IN PARLIAMENT 11 locations throughout the UK and some www.linnean.org 3 Birdcage Walk lucky students will be selected to represent London SW1H 9JJ Unless otherwise stated events are held at T: 020 7222 7085 their region in the Competition finals at The the Linnean Society of London sip F: 020 7222 7189 Big Bang in March 2012. www.scienceinparliament.org.uk For more information, please visit Thursday 16th June 18.00 www.thebigbangfair.co.uk/nearme/ Thinking art from within biology Editor: Professor Peter Simpson Alexis Rago FLS Editorial Assistant: Annabel Lloyd ______Thursday 7th July 18.00 The production of this issue has been supported by contributions from the New Engineering Foundation, The Species on the EDGE Institution of Engineering and Technology, TWI (The Craig Turner FLS Welding Institute) and those organisations who have entries in the Science Directory (pages 55-63). ______Published by the Parliamentary and Scientific Committee, 3 Birdcage Walk, London SW1H 9JJ. Published four times a year. The 2011 subscription rate is £70.00. Single numbers £17.50 ISSN 0263-6271 All enquiries, including those from members wishing to take the front or back covers, advertise in the journal or appear in the directory to Mrs Annabel Lloyd, Tel 020 7222 7085 Copyright ©2011 by Parliamentary and Scientific Committee. All rights reserved. None of the articles in this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying recording or otherwise without the prior written permission of the copyright owner.

Typeset and printed by The Bridge Press.

Science in Parliament Vol 68 No 2 Whitsun 2011 65 9605 sip whitsun 2011 12/5/11 08:58 Page 68

Welding with Chocolate

A novel and highly popular attraction delivered by The Welding Institute at the Big Bang UK Young Scientists’ and Engineers’ Fairs in Manchester in March 2010, and again in London from 10 to 12 March 2011.

Hot plate welding with a safe, low melting point engineering material creates hands- on fabrication fun!

The impressive load bearing capacity of a welded chocolate box girder!

Build it, break it, eat it! What could be better?