Briefings: research policy

Cancer Research UK spent over £315 million on research in 2006/07. This supported over 4,250 scientists, doctors and nurses in universities, research institutes and the NHS throughout the UK. We fund research on all aspects of cancer, from the most basic nuts-and-bolts of cell biology to large studies of entire populations. Our research provides a vital contribution to the UK’s enviable global reputation for scientific research. The Government has an important role to play in maintaining and promoting the UK's position at the forefront of science.

All of the research that we fund is governed by the UK research policy environment. The different types of research we fund are affected by different policies and regulations. We believe that the Government should provide adequate funding and a supportive legislative environment to conduct research and promote its translation to public benefit.

When considering the policy issues affecting our research it is helpful to consider those that affect our non-clinical research and our clinical research separately. Non-clinical research is critical to improving our understanding of the causes of cancer. Without this advances in prevention, screening and treatment would not be possible. Information is available on the following policy issues that impact upon our non-clinical research:

• Sustainability of research and government support for charity funded research in universities
• The use of patient data for research
• The use of animals in cancer research