Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what steps she is taking to support postgraduate researchers with increases in the cost of living.

The Government recognises that postgraduate researchers (PGRs) are vital to the UK’s science and technology superpower ambitions.

The Government has funded UKRI to significantly increase the minimum stipend level for PGRs by nearly 20% in cash terms over two years (rising to £18,622 pa for the 2023/24 academic year), to help them with the current cost-of living. Around 20% of PGRs receive UKRI stipends, which are generally tax-free.

This financial support is part of the Government’s long-term work on reaching a New Deal for PGRs, to make the UK the best place for PGRs.