Sir Patrick Vallance handed tech role to build on vaccine success

Chief scientific adviser will head new government body looking at big bets in science and technology

The government's chief scientific adviser, Sir Patrick Vallance, has been asked by Boris Johnson to investigate whether the UK's successful vaccine procurement programme can be replicated in other areas of technology.

Vallance, who has become a household name following his appearances at coronavirus press conferences, will take on the new title of national technology adviser, serving alongside his current roles.