Britain's new science minister says there will be a "relentless focus" on using research to improve people's lives.
Michelle Donnellan told BBC News that a department focused solely on science, technology, and innovation would be "transformative".
It is the first time since 1994 that a minister specializing in science has been appointed.
Critics say the establishment of the science department is an ill-timed distraction.
The economics department was in charge of science. But it was split into three parts as part of a Cabinet reshuffle earlier this week.
Business and trade, energy security and net zero, and science, innovation, and technology, are now led by Donnellan.
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