Response to spending review

“We welcome the recognition that the Autumn Statement gave to the cultural sector and scientific research. Government funding is an essential part of the Museum’s ability to continue to deliver significant economic value to the UK and achieve impact internationally. It is also the foundation for inspiring 5.5 million visitors per year, as well as generating high impact research into the natural world and a sustainable future. 

The maintenance of funding at current levels, along with our proven track record for increasing self-generated income, will be key to us realising the ambitious strategy we announced earlier in the year. 

We challenge the way people think about the natural world – its past, present and future. We are strengthening our partnerships on public engagement and science with other museums, universities, NGOs, schools and many others across the UK, and more widely. For example, we are currently developing a major partnership aimed at eradicating a number of tropical diseases in the developing world, building on our internationally important collections and expertise in research.  

We are committed to sharing experience, innovation and value across the wider UK. We are working to make the UK a better place to live, a better place for nature, a better place for scientific collaboration, a better place to learn and a better place to visit.”

Notes for editors 

Media contact

Tel: +44 (0) 20 7942 5654/+44 (0) 7799 690151

Email: press@nhm.ac.uk

• The Natural History Museum welcomes more than five million visitors a year and is a world-leading science research centre. Through its unique collection and unrivalled expertise it is tackling the biggest challenges facing the world today. It helps enable food security, eradicate disease and manage resource scarcity. It is studying the diversity of life and the delicate balance of ecosystems to ensure the survival of our planet. www.nhm.ac.uk