In a bold move that could redefine how Britain governs, Shadow Chancellor Liz Kendall has revealed Labour's ambitious plan to place science and evidence at the very core of government decision-making.
A New Era of Evidence-Based Governance
The radical proposal centres on establishing a powerful Chief Scientific Adviser who would work directly within the Treasury, ensuring that scientific expertise informs every major economic and social policy decision. This represents a significant departure from current practices and signals Labour's commitment to what Kendall describes as "practical, evidence-based solutions" to the nation's most pressing challenges.
Learning from Pandemic Lessons
Kendall's announcement comes with a stark warning about the consequences of ignoring expert advice. "We saw during the pandemic what happens when you don't prepare and don't follow the scientific evidence," she stated, highlighting the urgent need for a more robust, science-led approach to policy development.
Building Bridges Between Science and State
The proposed reforms aim to create stronger connections between government and the UK's world-class research institutions. Kendall emphasised that this isn't just about having scientists in the room, but about fundamentally changing how policy is developed - from economic strategy to public health initiatives and environmental protection.
A Competitive Edge in Global Innovation
With nations like America and China aggressively investing in science and technology, Kendall argues that Britain must not fall behind. "We've got to have a strategy that actually makes the most of our fantastic research and development," she insisted, positioning science as crucial to the UK's future economic competitiveness.
Practical Solutions Over Political Ideology
The shadow chancellor was clear that this approach represents a break from what she characterised as "sticking plaster politics." Instead, Labour promises a government that "does things differently" by grounding its policies in solid evidence and long-term thinking rather than short-term political calculation.
This science-first strategy could mark one of the most significant shifts in how British government operates in decades, potentially transforming everything from economic planning to public service reform if Labour comes to power.
