Question to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, whether he has made an assessment of the effect of the distribution of research and development establishments on regional inequality.

Research and development is an important driver of productivity and growth both nationally and locally. The Government’s Industrial Strategy identified a range of other factors that also contribute to growth including skills, trade and inward investment, infrastructure, business support and sectors. The Government recognises that different places have different needs. Science and Innovation Audits are helping to develop the evidence base of where local research strength, innovation capability and potential markets are aligned. These audits are an important contribution to understanding of the strengths and opportunities of different regions as the Government develops an Industrial Strategy that works for all parts of the country.