The Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) has issued a clear warning following the Autumn Budget. CEO Yvonne Baker OBE has urged that energy support must reach the chemicals sector fast, and new plans for student finance could unintentionally destabilise already fragile STEM courses.
Here, she offers clear commentary on what the Budget got right, what needs sharpening, and where the government must act.
“Most of the interest around this Budget has been on the big picture tax questions facing the government, but we should not forget that budgets are crucial opportunities for the government to make the serious investments needed to achieve stated goals on growth and clean energy.
“We welcome the Budget explicitly recognising the foundational role of chemicals sector (albeit it hidden in the footnotes) and the need for support with energy costs. What is important now is that this support is – in fact and actions – appropriately targeted, timely and delivered effectively.
“We support the principle of expanding maintenance grants for disadvantaged students studying priority courses – particularly STEM subjects. However, it is vital that linking this to the new International Student Levy does not impair further the financial viability of some STEM courses which are already under considerable strain.”
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