The British Science Association recently contributed to the Science and Technology Select Committee’s Leaving the EU: implications and opportunities for science and research consultation.

We see the Brexit vote as a reflection of a disconnect between the UK public and the establishment, of which science is an integral part. We feel scientific institutions should pay attention to the concerns of public, and should lead the way in opening up science to the wider community.

This requires a reappraisal of what it means to involve people with science, and a progression of the approach to public engagement. We believe this means encouraging more diversity in science and promoting public led discussion about the scientific issues on the horizon.

Katherine Mathieson, chief executive of the British Science Association, said: “For the British Science Association, it’s important that scientists and public audiences come together for a post-Brexit conversation. Making science a more fundamental part of culture will support a more effective relationship between science and the public.”

You can download our full response here, and visit our blog to find out more.