Defra Science Advisory Council
Terms of Reference
The SAC helps to ensure the quality and appropriateness of Defra science and its use, by providing strategic advice on Defra’s science activities, their relationship with the wider UK and international science base and the effectiveness with which science is used to inform the development and delivery of Defra’s policy goals.
To achieve this it will:
- provide independent and published advice to the Chief Scientific Adviser (CSA) on:
- the strategic direction of, and priorities for, departmental science;
- the balance, relevance and adequacy of science activities supporting Departmental objectives;
- broad strategic issues, priorities and policies from a science perspective;
- the design and effectiveness of procedures relating to science advice;
- both pressing and emerging science issues facing Defra.
- participate in horizon-scanning and long-range planning exercises to help identify emerging challenges and opportunities for Defra science and develop options for responding;
- provide independent review of scientific activities relating to Defra’s preparation for and response to emergencies in Defra’s areas of responsibility; and
- where necessary, advise the CSA on specialist expertise available in the science community that Defra could benefit from.
Code of Practice
At its inaugural meeting on 30th April 2004 the SAC adopted a Code of Practice for its members.
The code is based on the Code of Practice for Scientific Advisory Committees published by the Office of Science and Technology in December 2001. In establishing SAC it was agreed that it should follow this code of practice. Additional material has been included or adapted from experience with the previous Science Advisory Group and other bodies advising government. The code also covers new legislation regarding openness and freedom of information.
The code of practice will be updated periodically as required.
Reimbursement of SAC Members
As from 1 July 2005, SAC Member remuneration rates are:
Chair £307.50 per day
Member £205 per day
Remuneration at half of these rates is available for preparation time. Claiming fees for SAC work is optional. Members may decline their fee if desired.
Up to four one-day meetings are held per year. Additional member time may be required to provide support to the work of sub-groups.
If you would like to comment or be added to the Science Advisory Council's stakeholder mailing list please email: science.advisory.council@defra.gsi.gov.uk
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last modified: 5 November 2007
Page published: 5 November 2007