Sir Ed Davey Calls for UK to Welcome US Cancer Researchers Fleeing "Anti-Science Agenda"
**Sir Ed Davey**, leader of the **Liberal Democrats**, is urging the UK to welcome cancer researchers fleeing what he calls an "anti-science agenda" in the United States. He proposes a dedicated fellowship scheme and discounted visas to attract these scientists to the UK, making cancer research a "top priority" for the **NHS**.
Attacking Trump's Policies and Supporting Cancer Research
**Sir Ed Davey** has used his party's conference in Bournemouth to criticize the policies of **Donald Trump**, particularly his administration's stance on cancer research funding. He argues that the U.S. is the world's largest funder of cancer research, primarily through the **National Cancer Institute**, but **Trump** has allegedly cancelled hundreds of grants for cancer research projects. He believes this poses a significant threat to the global fight against cancer.
The **Liberal Democrats** pledge to build a national cancer research center and pass a Cancer Survival Research Act. This initiative aims to rebuild a National Cancer Research Institute after it was closed under the Conservatives, to coordinate research and drive it forward.
“Come here, and finish it in the UK. We’ll set up a dedicated fellowship scheme for you, and we won’t let extortionate Home Office fees stand in your way.” - **Sir Ed Davey**'s message to American cancer researchers.
Controversial Claims and Policy Positions
The **Trump** administration's conclusions about the causes of autism, specifically the claim that acetaminophen (paracetamol) use during pregnancy heightens the risk of autism, have been met with strong opposition from scientists internationally. This issue is a key part of the Liberal Democrats argument that **Donald Trump** holds an "anti-science agenda."
- **Proposed Fellowship Scheme:** Aimed at US scientists whose research has been halted.
- **National Cancer Research Centre:** Pledge to build a national cancer research centre
- **Cancer Survival Research Act:** Will be passed to help accomplish cancer research goals
Criticism of Reform UK and Elon Musk
**Sir Ed Davey** has also criticized **Reform UK** and its leader, **Nigel Farage**, for applauding cuts to research into medicine. He points to the Reform conference where attendees allegedly "enthusiastically applauded" the Trump administration’s decision to slash funding for mRNA vaccines, which are being trialled as a way to offer personalised immunotherapy treatment for some cancers. Furthermore, **Sir Ed** has attacked **Elon Musk**, even branding him a "criminal," with the Lib Dems reportedly preparing for potential legal action.
The **Lib Dems** have also taken aim at what they see as "plastic patriotism" on the right, with figures such as Tim Farron calling for a reclaiming of patriotic sentiment from groups that seek to "divide and destroy". This forms part of the party's broader strategy to position themselves as a viable alternative to both the Conservatives and Reform UK.
Broader Political Context
The Liberal Democrats are aiming to capitalize on the current political landscape, hoping to win a significant number of seats in the next general election. **Sir Ed Davey** believes his party could win "way more" than 100 seats. The party has announced plans for a windfall tax on big banks to fund solar panels and insulation for homeowners, cigarette-style health warnings on social media, and a new law to prevent ministers from lobbying for foreign leaders. These announcements have been a major part of the party's conference.
