Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, whether she is taking steps to support the (a) growth and (b) commercialisation of scientific research in Havering.

The Government has raised support for research commercialisation to its highest level ever. For example, the Higher Education Innovation Fund, supporting knowledge exchange between universities and the wider world, is £280m for academic year 2022-23, including £20m for commercialisation, and spinouts can access financial support like Innovate UK Smart Grants.

The Government also helps businesses take advantage of innovation. For example, Innovate UK’s EDGE gives innovative businesses the wrap-around support and leadership and management skills they need to scale up, commercialise, and access new markets.

Barking & Dagenham and Havering received £1.08m of UKRI spend in 2020-21, supporting research, development and innovation.