A new Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS)

The Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, announced on 28 June the creation of a new department to ensure the UK has the skilled workforce it needs to compete in the global economy. The new Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS) will also deliver the Government’s long-term vision to make Britain one of the best places in the world for science, research and innovation.

The Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills - along with a new Department for Children, Schools and Families - replaces the former Department for Education and Skills (DfES). The DIUS will be responsible for a range of issues that include further and higher education (including Skills for Life) from the ages of 19+.

The new Secretary of State for Innovation, Universities and Skills is John Denham.

He said:

“I am hugely excited by the challenges that lie ahead. The world is changing fast and Britain must keep on growing and changing to stay in front.

“It is thrilling to lead a department with the mission to ensure every person in this country has the opportunity to reach their full potential and highest ambitions. 

“High quality skills are vitally important to achieve this ambition and we must strive to build a workforce able to compete in a highly competitive global market.

“I recognise that enhancing our already world-class scientific research and successfully exploiting cutting-edge innovation are also at the heart of global success. 

“This new department which will bring together these key elements will help Britain stay at the forefront of the global economy in an increasingly competitive world.”

Ian Watmore is the first Permanent Secretary for the new Department. He said:

“I am delighted to be the Permanent Secretary of the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills. I am enormously excited about this opportunity. My immediate challenge will be to create a new Department modelled on Civil Service best practice.”

Bill Rammell remains as a junior Minister in the new Department and is joined by a new junior Minister, David Lammy, following the departure of Phil Hope to the Cabinet Office. Further details on the new Department and the specific responsibilities of each Minister will appear in due course.

www.dius.gov.uk

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