As part of his mini Cabinet re-shuffle on 7 February 2023, the Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, also announced a new Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, which the Government says will “drive the innovation that will deliver improved public services, create new and better-paid jobs and grow the economy”. In the Government’s view, having a single department focused on turning scientific and technical innovations into practical, appliable solutions to the challenges we face will “help make sure the UK is the most innovative economy in the world”.

Mr Sunak also announced a combined Department for Business and Trade to “support growth by backing British businesses at home and abroad, promoting investment and championing free trade”.

Finally, Mr Sunak also announced a “re-focused” Department for Culture, Media and Sport that will “recognise the importance of these industries to our economy and build on the UK’s position as a global leader in the creative arts”. To read the Government’s press release in full, click here.