REGIONAL development chief Allan Willett has hailed a £1.25 billion cash injection into science as a boost for skills.

Mr Willett, who lives in Chilham, near Canterbury, is chairman of the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) and the lead regional development agency chairman for science and innovation.

He said: "The government's new science and technology strategy highlights the importance of building a stronger skills base, from the classroom to the university laboratory."

Mr Willett, who is also Lord Lieutenant of Kent, said: "If we are to retain, and indeed build upon, our reputation as a centre of world class research and development, we must continue to invest in raising the level of science and technology skills. This is the key to unlocking the true potential of Britain's scientific, engineering and manufacturing industries."

The new funding package complements the RDAs' recently-announced plans to establish Science Councils in each of the English regions, and their existing activities to promote science and innovation.

Projects already underway by the RDAs include promoting interaction and 'knowledge transfer' between universities and businesses; regional centres to promote business incubation for hi-tech business startups and university spinout companies; and support for computer clubs and young engineers in schools.