Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Stephen Metcalfe and Lord Johnson of Marylebone

Tuesday 2nd February 2016 Commons Chamber

[Matt Warman (Boston and Skegness) (Con)]

11. What steps he is taking to increase the participation rate in STEM subjects in higher education.

[The Minister for Universities and Science (Joseph Johnson)]

Record numbers of students secured places on science, technology, engineering and maths courses this year at our universities, and thanks to the decision we have taken to end student number controls, there is no longer any cap on the number of people wishing to study STEM subjects. The number of full-time students accepted to study STEM subjects in England is up 17% since 2010.

[Stephen Metcalfe]

Will my hon. Friend join me in celebrating the work and role science and discovery centres play in inspiring young scientists and engineers? Will he tell the House what plans he has to improve their reach, raise awareness of their existence and support their important work?

[Joseph Johnson]

I certainly will. Our science centres do a fantastic job engaging with over 20 million people each year. That complements the work we are doing to boost STEM subjects in schools. Last week I was delighted to announce a £30 million Inspiring Science capital fund in partnership with the Wellcome Trust. It will allow science centres to make big investments in cutting edge exhibitions and education spaces, and reach all sorts of people who think science is not for them.