This week, Michelle Donelan, a member of the cabinet, will encounter further scrutiny for her decision-making, as she approved using taxpayer money to compensate an academic who she wrongly accused of supporting Hamas.
The secretary of science will be presenting to a group of members from different political parties on Tuesday, where she will likely be asked about the steps she took that led her to accuse, and subsequently withdraw, her statement. There is also a possibility that the decision to leave taxpayers with a cost of £15,000 will be brought up. According to the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology (DSIT), this amount was paid without accepting any responsibility.
Donelan has not yet presented herself in the Commons for questioning regarding her choice to publicize a letter accusing two academics of having “extremist” beliefs and advocating for their removal from a UK Research and Innovation advisory group. A separate investigation conducted by UKRI exonerated the individuals of any misconduct. Both opposing parties are now exploring options to hold her responsible for her actions.
Although the government claims that Donelan received proper advice and legal guidance, it is uncertain if she had permission to post the letter on social media. The process of composing the letter also seemed rushed, as emails obtained through the Freedom of Information Act show that government officials and lawyers were working late into a Friday night to make edits and approve it.
It is reported that Donelan provided “clear guidance” during the process, although the specific details of her instructions remain unknown.
According to Wendy Chamberlain, the head of the Liberal Democrat party’s parliamentary discipline, the decision was obviously mishandled and should be carefully looked into. She also stated that it is necessary for the taxpayers to know why their money was used to cover the expenses of Michelle Donelan’s actions. Chamberlain emphasized the importance of transparency from Donelan and called for her to address the House of Commons and clarify her actions.
There are concerns among academics regarding the reliability of her decision-making abilities. Donelan is responsible for managing government funding for research projects. Bob Ward from the Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment accused her of abusing her power in targeting and hindering university scholars, which is a direct infringement on academic liberty.
The DSIT has stated that it is customary for ministers to receive legal assistance and representation when matters pertain to their conduct and duties as a minister, as seen in previous administrations. This was also the case in this situation.
Source: theguardian.com
