7 Conclusion
196. We have described our main conclusions and recommendations
at the end of each chapter. They range widely in terms of impact,
reflecting the many different strands of a broad inquiry, but
are underpinned by a common purpose and a clear message. We want
to see the recent improvements in the scientific advisory system,
epitomised by the advent of a cadre of departmental Chief Scientific
Advisers, embedded and built upon. Our recommendations seek to
strengthen the hand of these individuals and also the position
of science specialists within the civil service. We want to see
science established in the mainstream of policy making, in recognition
of the contribution that science can and should make to policy
making in almost every area. This desire should be shared by any
Government that wishes to place evidence at the heart of policy
making. We welcome the Government's commitment to using evidence,
but retain some concerns that the phrase "evidence based
policy making" is liable to be devalued if abused. To prevent
this, we have identified a need for greater clarity and honesty
in the stated rationale for policies; more transparency in the
scientific advice and public involvement which influence policy;
and a commitment to policy re-evaluation on the basis of emerging
evidence. Not all of this is politically easy to deliver on a
consistent basis, but we believe that it is essential in order
to help restore public confidence in the integrity of the policy
making process and to improve that process itself.
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