Britain needs to invest more in high-tech research and innovation if it is to remain competitive in a globalized economy, says its former science minister. David Sainsbury makes his recommendations in a government-commissioned review of British science and innovation.

The report, entitled The Race to the Top, calls for Britain's Technology Strategy Board to oversee government-funded research councils and make it easier for industry to gain access to research and development funds, with the aim of fostering technological innovation. ?Company strategies based on low costs alone will end up in a downward spiral,? Sainsbury says.

The recommendations in the report, released on 5 October, will provide a strategic outline for a comprehensive overhaul of government science and other spending announced on 9 October. As Nature went to press, this spending review was expected to include a substantial boost in government funding for research.