I understand that the Science Minister, David Willetts, has today made a written ministerial statement on the Haldane Principles. In a short statement he says that the Coalition Government strongly supports the principles but notes the uncertaintly over its interpretation and announces that:

‘I intend to clarify this in a statement which will be released alongside the Science and Research Budget Allocations towards the end of the year.’

He also says he will be consulting key figures in the research community to ensure a robust statement.