I have had a long-standing commitment to research and have overseen very significant investment in a range of research programmes over the last two decades. Career pathways for young people in research are important. There is a wide spectrum of postgraduates, from MA students to those qualifying to become teachers, so one cannot just have one simplistic policy applying to all. At PhD level, particularly within certain science-related programmes, there is very substantial research work under way. It is an issue that the Minister will address.

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