82. While science and technology has been fortunate in recent years in having a long-serving and committed Science Minister in Lord Sainsbury, the House has been less well-served by the position being held by a peer. Although Lord Sainsbury has always been a cooperative witness before our Committee, we feel the House suffers by being unable to question him directly; science questions are handled by the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry. Members are also denied the opportunity to discuss issues of concern in more informal settings in Westminster. We note that the different arrangements for ministerial questions in the House of Lords mean that science questions are seldom raised in that chamber.

83. As a result of these concerns, we asked Lord Sainsbury whether he would be willing to appear before the Committee for a short period on a more regular basis. We are delighted that he has agreed to do so. This will give us the opportunity to discuss more current issues with the Minister. The first session took place on 9 February and covered a range of topical issues. This and future sessions will form the basis of future annual scrutiny Reports, as well as feed into our other inquiries. We welcome the opportunity to question the Science Minister on a more regular basis. This will result in a more productive dialogue between Parliament and Government on scientific issues.