ABSTRACT
The Commission took detailed evidence from researchers and policy-makers in Belfast, Cardiff and Edinburgh and had discussions in some of the English regions. Social science research in the devolved countries seems weak when contrasted with England, where almost all of the major research departments of the UK are to be found. However these changes have had many impacts upon the nature of, and potential for enhancing, social scientific work. The presence of the new Assembly, with its clear responsibilities and funding priorities, has created an enormous opportunity for the development of social science research in Wales. Social scientists serve as Assembly Members and ministers, they work as advisors in a number of capacities, and they conduct policy-relevant research and assist in the assessment of projects. While the situation in the English regions is very different, there has been a significant change associated with the introduction of Regional Development Agencies (RDAs).
