Second Report - Pre-appointment hearing for the Chair of UK Research and Innovation

Sir Andrew’s evidence and career experience to date indicated that he would need to improve his personal knowledge of how Government works, the research and innovation landscape and the most pertinent issues relating to research and innovation. Early priorities for Sir Andrew to focus on should include how to work with Ministers and officials in Whitehall and within UKRI, as well as developing further knowledge of research and innovation issues.

As the UKRI conflicts of interest policy states “the existence of an actual, perceived or potential conflict of interest does not necessarily imply wrongdoing on anyone’s part” but it should be considered as it “may be damaging to UKRI’s reputation”. It is therefore in the interests of the Government, UKRI and Sir Andrew that there is no perceived conflict of interest between Sir Andrew’s role as Chair of UKRI and as Chair of Shell. Prior to confirming the appointment, the Government, UKRI and Sir Andrew should formalise a process for how potential conflicts of interests (direct and indirect) between these two roles will be managed in practice. An update on this process, once agreed, should be provided to the Committee. Should Sir Andrew be appointed we wish him well and look forward to working with him. 30 Q12 Pre-appointment hearing for the Chair of UK Research and Innovation 9