The Council for Science and Technology (CST) is the UK government's premier independent advisory body on science and technology policy issues. The CST advises the Prime Minister and the First Ministers of Scotland and Wales on medium to long-term issues that cut across the responsibilities of individual government departments. The CST secretariat is housed within the Government Office for Science (GO-Science) which is located within the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS).

The CST addresses the strategic policies and framework for:

• Sustaining and developing science, engineering and technology in the UK, and promoting international co-operation
• Fostering the practice and perception of science, engineering and technology as an integral part of the culture of the UK
• Promoting excellence in science, engineering and technology education
• Making more effective use of research and scientific advice in the development and delivery of policy and public services across Government
• Promoting science and engineering-based innovation in business and the public services to promote the sustainable development of the UK economy, the health and quality of life of UK citizens, and global sustainable development

The Council works on cross-cutting issues of strategic importance, taking a medium to longer term approach. In developing its advice it takes into account the cultural, economic, environmental, ethical and social context of developments in science, engineering and technology.

The 15 members of the Council are respected senior figures from across science and engineering, and are appointed by the Prime Minister. The Council has two Chairs - one is the Government Chief Scientific Advisor and the other is appointed from its membership.

The CST work programme is developed by its members in discussion with government. Advice may be delivered to government by published reports, confidential written advice, and discussions with ministers, officials and special advisers.