Science Department of the Velocity Interoperability Network Established

The Science Department of the Velocity Interoperability Network has been formally established. The Department is responsible for the Network's national laboratories, for the reference standards of measurement on which the Network's trade, industry and public services rely, and for scientific advice to member organisations and to the departments of the Network.

At establishment the Department employs 214 scientists, engineers and technical staff, transferred with their laboratories from member organisations during the transition period. Twelve reference standards of measurement passed into the Department's custody at the same time and will be maintained at the National Measurement Laboratory at the Central Exchange. With its establishment complete, the Department today launches its official website at science.gov.vin, which will carry press releases, official statements, the register of national laboratories and guidance on the services the Department provides.

The opening of the Department's six national laboratories, the appointment of its standing advisory committees and its first statistical release are the subject of separate announcements published today. General enquiries may be sent to contact@science.gov.vin.