‘The insights from the humanities and social sciences are pivotal to a secure, healthy, and economically prosperous nation’ urges the British Academy in spending review submission

The humanities and social sciences are invaluable in maintaining and developing the UK’s global reputation for world-class research excellence, ensuring our health, security and prosperity and achieving the government’s missions, states the British Academy in its response to the Budget and Spending Review.

In its representation to HM Treasury, the Academy – the UK’s national academy for the humanities and social sciences – highlights three ways the government can utilise the vast potential of SHAPE (Social Sciences, Humanities and the Arts for People and the Economy) and boost the UK’s outstanding global reputation for research.

Among its recommendations are calls for an urgent review of higher education funding, for the UK to be a leading country in the G7 on R&D (Research and Development) and the reduction of barriers to international collaboration and research mobility.

The submission outlines the following three areas that should be prioritised:

1. Break down barriers by supporting an educational and research system that is sustainable, sparks creativity and offers opportunities to all;
2. Use insights and evidence – from all disciplines – to serve the country’s needs and address society’s biggest challenges;
3. Rebuild relationships with partners abroad and nurture research talent in the United Kingdom;

Hetan Shah, Chief Executive of the British Academy, said:

“The UK has an enviable reputation in research and innovation and higher education – presenting enormous benefits for society and the economy – and the humanities and social sciences are among its greatest strengths.

But the higher education and research landscape faces serious challenges which are posing a direct threat to their health and future. We urge the government to take action at these upcoming fiscal events to protect and enhance our disciplines for the health, wealth and prosperity of all society.

Our submission to the Treasury sets out the ways in which the government can utilise the vast potential of the humanities and social sciences to support its ambitious plans to rebuild Britain and ensure the UK maintains its global reputation for excellence in all disciplines.”