As the largest union representing scientists and engineers, the conference will draw together the views of its members working in the civil service, research councils and other parts of the public and private sectors.

Delegates will hear from keynote speaker, science minister Lord Sainsbury, who will be discussing the Department of Trade and Industry’s innovation review and new innovation group; government’s support for the biotech sector; space policy; and the importance of medium-level qualifications.

Lord Sainsbury will address the conference at 11am.

Other topics for debate include:

• the funding of UK horticultural research,
• genetically modified organisms,
• a regional policy for UK science, and
• new government initiatives to support the increased involvement of women in science, engineering and technology, among others.

Afternoon speakers include Jackie Longworth, past president of the Women’s Engineering Society, and Alan Clark, chief executive of the Engineering Technology Board.

The conference, which starts at 10.30am, will take place at the National Liberal Club, Whitehall Place, London, SW1A 2HE. The nearest underground stations are Embankment and Charing Cross.