New Chair for science advisory council

Professor John Beddington CMG FRS is the new chair of Defra's Science Advisory Council (SAC).

John Beddington is Professor of Applied Population Biology at Imperial College London, and takes over as SAC chair from Professor Roy Anderson following his appointment as Chief Scientific Advisor at the Ministry of Defence.

The independent SAC was set up in 2004 to give Defra expert advice on science policy and strategy. Defra spends about £350million a year on science and research, including monitoring and surveillance.

Defra Science Minister Larry Whitty said:

"John will bring vision and experience to the SAC, adding to the wealth of knowledge and expertise of its members. I know that he will ensure the SAC continues to not only help Defra but challenge us in our efforts to improve the way we think about and use science to inform and direct what we do."

Howard Dalton, Defra's Chief Scientific Advisor, said:

"I am delighted that someone with John's excellent scientific credentials has agreed to serve as chair of the Council. He has a proven track record as an effective chair on several important committees and brings a breadth of knowledge in many scientific areas with him."

John Beddington said:

"I am delighted and honoured to have the opportunity to work with this impressive group and to have the chance to contribute to the important questions of science and policy that Defra addresses."

Professor Beddington will be paid £300 per day as SAC chair plus £150 a day preparation time.