Nigel Titchen, president of Prospect’s science, engineering and technology group, said: "On one hand the government is heralding huge spending boosts for science, while on the other it is axing existing scientific facilities.

"Today’s announcement does nothing to reassure the real concerns among the scientific community over the impact of cuts to existing facilities. At present Britain’s premier biological engineering research facility at Silsoe, near Bedford, faces closure with the loss of over two thirds of the 200-strong workforce, and 70 research posts are to be axed from the Institute for Animal Health, a key player in the fight against the recent foot and mouth and BSE crisies."

"Chopping and changing research priorities according to the fashion of the moment places the UK at real risk of being unable to respond effectively when the next crisis occurs."

The union also warned of the need to strike a balancing act between funding for equipment and staff. Said Titchen: "If this country is to have the scientific expertise it needs, the government cannot just focus on new kit, but must ensure there are sufficient public sector scientific posts in place with attractive career prospects so talent can be retained and developed."