Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, whether he has had discussions with the Advanced Research and Invention Agency on (a) their sustainability plans and (b) assessments of the sustainability of projects they (i) fund and (ii) otherwise sponsor since July 2024.

As set out in ARIA’s Framework Agreement, ARIA has unique operational freedoms, including over its research and project choice and its procedures. ARIA is committed to integrating sustainable practices into both its business operations and its programme portfolio. As set out in the Framework Agreement, ARIA will evaluate itself against pillar A of the 2021-25 Greening Government Commitments. Additionally, ARIA will have regard to contributing to the UK’s climate change targets and environmental goals through its programme portfolio.