Brexit Chancellor's Autumn Address Worries Scientists

The status of global politics remains uncertain since the start of 2016. Mere days ago, the United States was caught off-guard by the unprecedented win of the Republican candidate, Donald Trump. Similarly, earlier this year, the results of Brexit have left residents of the UK dumbfounded.

According to studies, more than 70 percent of Americans are frustrated over the outcome of the election. Likewise, 72 percent of young people ages 18-30 have expressed their exasperation surrounding the Brexit vote.

Considering the volatility of the global political stage, there is an apprehension towards the future of a few fields and industries. Suffice to say, the statement cannot truer at least surrounding the fate of science in the UK considering the decision to leave the European Union. Scientists from across the UK have since turned to the upcoming Autumn Statement for some answers. The UK government has yet to comment on what the Philip Hammond, Chancellor of the Exchequer, has in store come the speech.

In an article by Nature, a few scientists and industry insiders have expressed their apprehension over the upcoming statement. Jennifer Rohn, cell biologist from the University College London, explained that the unlike past Autumn Statements, the content of the upcoming one is completely hard to predict.

"The Autumn Statement is a real nail-biter for scientists. In the past, even when we've been unsure of the specific outcomes, we've at least been familiar with the Treasury's general stance on the importance of science. With a change of guard, everything is up in the air" detailed Rohn.

Sarah Main, director of the Campaignfor Science and Engineering in London, remains hopeful about what the Hammond has in store for the field of science in the UK. She explains that for her intent to support the field is more important than the amount of money the sector would be getting.