Britain must nurture its scientific expertise to help save the world from climate crisis | Martin Rees

Clean energy and sustainable food supplies will be the planet's most pressing issues over the next 30 years

Experts" have had a raised profile during the Covid-19 pandemic, standing - albeit somewhat embarrassed - alongside Boris Johnson during his press conferences. In coping with health-related matters, scientific advice is crucial. We will also need optimally applied science in meeting other global challenges: developing affordable clean energy, feeding the world and preserving the environment.

The UK has for centuries punched above its weight in science and invention. It's crucial to sustain our standing in a more competitive world: if we don't get smarter, we'll get poorer. Enough of our brightest and best must opt for science, engineering and technology, as millions do each year in east Asia.