Discusses issues related to comments made by Britain's Secretary of State for Education and Science that the government may soon take a more direct role in determining teaching/research programs at British universities. Includes comments on the dual support system and impact of potential changes in funding basic scientific research. (JN)

Examines the effects of changes and diminishments in financial support and the future of university-based research in Britain. Assesses schemes for finding university research and discusses concerns dealing with selectivity, university collaboration, and the vertical stratification of universities for scientific research. (ML)