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Science Minister Patrick Vallance Resigns, Funding Future Uncertain

7/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

Lord Patrick Vallance resigned as UK science minister today.
He had previously served as chief scientific adviser, led the UK’s Covid response, and secured a record Treasury settlement that surpassed other departmental budgets.
Scientists expressed sadness, warning that his departure could jeopardize future basic research funding.
Critics argue his growth-focused spending plan, which emphasized regions beyond the Oxford-Cambridge-London “golden triangle,” may divert money from basic science and cause long-term damage.

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Story summary

Lord Patrick Vallance resigned as UK science minister today.
He had previously served as chief scientific adviser, led the UK’s Covid response, and secured a record Treasury settlement that surpassed other departmental budgets.
Scientists expressed sadness, warning that his departure could jeopardize future basic research funding.
Critics argue his growth-focused spending plan, which emphasized regions beyond the Oxford-Cambridge-London “golden triangle,” may divert money from basic science and cause long-term damage.