Valerie tables EDM 944 on the Royal Institution at Albemarle Street

Valerie has today tabled an Early Day Motion (EDM) calling on the Government to ensure the future of the Royal Institution at 21 Albemarle Street, Mayfair, following reports that the building may be sold.

Valerie said:

“I tabled EDM 944, following reports that the Royal Institution may be looking to sell its building at 21 Albemarle Street, to increase awareness of the issue and to encourage people to raise it with their MPs. The Royal Institution, at its building at 21 Albemarle Street, has played a central role in the development of our scientific and cultural heritage since its founding in 1799 and it is vital that we preserve it for future generations. It is recognised internationally for its work to make science accessible and relevant to the public.”

“The building at 21 Albemarle Street was the workplace of Sir Humphry Davy, Michael Faraday and many other British scientists. It is the place where 10 elements were discovered and where Michael Faraday first demonstrated the power of electricity. We cannot allow such an important legacy to be lost.”

“Since 1825 the Royal Institution Christmas Lectures, founded by Michael Faraday, have introduced new generations of children to the joy of scientific discovery. I am calling on the Government to ensure the future of the Royal Institution at 21 Albemarle Street, so that it can remain as a centre synonymous with the promotion of discovery, innovation, inspiration and imagination. I hope the Government will listen and take action before we lose this national scientific legacy.”

Full text of EDM 944:

“That this House is concerned that the Royal Institution (RI) may be selling the building at 21 Albemarle Street; notes that this was the workplace of Sir Humphry Davy and Michael Faraday and other leading British Scientists; further notes that this is the place where 10 elements were discovered and where Michael Faraday first demonstrated the power of electricity; is concerned that the RI, which is a focus for children’s first experience in science particularly with the Christmas Lectures founded by Michael Faraday in 1825, may be lost; welcomes the fact that interest in science is on the increase among girls and boys; calls on the Government to ensure the RI’s legacy of Britain’s contribution to science continues and remains in the building at 21 Albemarle Street as the place for discovery, innovation, inspiration and imagination.”

To view EDM 944 on the House of Commons EDM database, please click here.

For more information on the Royal Institution, please click here.