Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How much money does the DTI spend on the NMS?

A. During 2001 to 2004, DTI will spend approximately £50 million per annum on science & technology (S&T) programmes and the infrastructure to support them.

Q. So, exactly, who can participate in NMS projects?

A. Companies of all sizes and research organisations throughout the UK can participate in NMS projects. High-tech small and medium size enterprises (SMEs) are particularly encouraged to get involved - they could participate in two forms: organisations from whom the Department can procure research and development projects and those who can adopt and exploit the outputs of the NMS programmes. In line with Government policy, the Department aims to ensure that 3% of the NMS programme budget is awarded directly to SMEs by 2004.

Q. Is money set aside for specific organisations?

A. No, money is not set aside for any specific business or research organisation. The resources are allocated to the different NMS programmes. In practice much of the activity under the programmes will require unique facilities or skills and the main contractors for the NMS (National Physical Laboratory (NPL), Laboratory of the Government Chemist (LGC) and National Engineering Laboratory (NEL)) would be the only credible suppliers. Currently, around 70% of NMS programme expenditure is at NPL, 10% is at LGC and 7% is at NEL.

Q. Is any money awarded through competitive tendering?

A. Yes, the Department aims to increase the number of projects within the programmes which are put out to open competitive tender - ultimately to about 10% by value overall - though existing contractors will be able to bid for this work.