The objective of our proposed reform of research assessment is to develop a simpler, less bureaucratic system for identifying and funding excellent research wherever It is not however intended to achieve a significantly different distribution of funding. The HEFCE consultation on the next stage in the development of the research excellence framework (REF) closed last week and the detailed results are currently being analysed. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Innovation, Universities and Skills plans to meet Professor David Eastwood, Chief Executive of HEFCE, shortly to discuss the responses and next steps.