In response to the announcement by First Minister Alex Salmond today (Wednesday), Michael Gibson, CBE, Chairman of the Macaulay Institute, Aberdeen said:

“The Scottish Government has asked that the Macaulay Institute look at the possibility of forming a new research institute with the Scottish Crop Research Institute (SCRI). The Board of the Macaulay Institute is happy to consider such an idea. However, neither the Macaulay Institute nor the SCRI are public bodies, but independent charitable organisations, thus this will not help the Scottish Government achieve their stated target of reducing the number of public bodies.

“Exploring synergies with other organisations, including SCRI, are just one of the scenarios that have previously been considered by the Macaulay Institute Board with a view to maintaining the long-term future of the Institute, its 300 staff and its unique contribution to the rural economy in Scotland and beyond.

“The pivotal role of the Macaulay Institute is in providing evidence on climate change, and finding the best balance of land-uses for secure sources of food, fuel, fibre, living space and livelihoods for all of Scotland’s people, whilst at the same time maintaining its world famous landscapes and wildlife which are so vital to our biggest industry – tourism.

“Continuing to contribute to sustainable rural development, and the vitality and the viability of Scotland’s communities and environments can only proceed if properly resourced and structured.

“We suggest that there is real need for a wider debate on the future funding and delivery of scientific research in Scotland – particularly with regards to the research which provides the crucial evidence underpinning much of our public policy, as well as informing Scotland’s businesses and regulators.

“We hope in the forthcoming weeks and months we will see valuable contributions to this public discussion from all the main players within this arena – Scotland’s research Institutes and universities, the various NGOs and charities, as well as the relevant unions and the government – as to how Scottish science can best serve Scotland and maintain its international leadership.

“We believe such a debate will prove most useful and would help fulfil the Scottish Government’s vision across science provision in Scotland. Identifying and following up synergies would offer even greater opportunities for streamlined, joined up government and the science provision it relies on.

“We hope that in any move to simplify scientific delivery, the Government does not discard the uniquely valuable insights and wealth of experience housed within the Macaulay Institute; rather that it uses the Macaulay’s expertise as a strong base on which to build.”