Collection

Science in government

Guidance on the use of scientific evidence and advice in government.

• From: Government Office for Science
• Published: 7 November 2014
• Last updated: 18 November 2014
  Show all updates

  1. 18 November 2014

     Guidance on legal liability added.

  2. 7 November 2014

     First published.

Strategy and guidelines

• Scientific advice to government: legal liability
  • 18 November 2014
  • Guidance
• Chief scientific advisers and their officials
  • 13 March 2025
  • Guidance
• Scientific advisory committees: code of practice and map of connections
  • 30 September 2026
  • Guidance
• Scientific advice to government: principles
  • 24 March 2010
  • Guidance
• Universal ethical code for scientists
  • 12 September 2007
  • Guidance

Guidance for scientists and policy makers

• Government science and engineering profession: leadership and talent development programmes
  • 15 May 2014
  • Guidance
• Government science and engineering profession: careers advice
  • 17 May 2013
  • Guidance
• Engaging with academics: guide for civil servants
  • 4 August 2026
  • Guidance
• Government science and engineering profession: continuous professional development
  • 15 February 2012
  • Guidance
• Engaging with government: guide for academics
  • 6 December 2011
  • Guidance
• Scientific and engineering advice: guidelines for policy makers
  • 1 July 2010
  • Guidance
• Scientific advisory committees: improving engagement
  • 21 June 2010
  • Guidance
• Scientific advisory committees: sharing good practice
  • 1 April 2010
  • Guidance
• Government science and engineering profession: writing guide
  • 19 October 2009
  • Guidance

Science and engineering reviews

The science and engineering assurance (SEA) programme reviews how effectively departments use scientific and analytical evidence in policy-making.

The SEA programme concluded at the end of 2012 following the review of HM Treasury. You can find all the completed reviews on the UK government Web Archive.

• HM Treasury: science and analysis assurance review
  • 27 August 2013
  • Corporate report