Harrogate & Knaresborough MP Phil Willis has been appointed to chair the new House of Commons Science & Technology Select Committee.

Earlier this month scrutiny of science and technology seemed at risk with the abolition of the Department for Innovation, Universities, Science and Skills and its select committee. Indeed the scientific community had been pressing for a select committee concentrating on science since the demise of the old committee in 2007.

The Government has now agreed to establish a new Science & Technology Select Committee in October. It will be chaired by Phil Willis MP (LibDem, Harrogate & Knaresborough).

"I cannot stress enough how vital the role of this Committee will be in ensuring that the Government’s science policy is held to account and that adequate attention is given to such a crucial policy area.” said Phil Willis.

"I welcome the decision of the Leader of the House to bring forward proposals to create this new Committee, and am delighted that the House of Commons has agreed to these proposals.

"I must also thank all those who made powerful representations to the Leader of the House on our behalf. We look forward to taking science and technology back into the premier league this autumn."

ENDS