18
functions and purposes of a research communications and publishing system that operates in the interests of researchers.
- 1.12. We have also been conscious throughout our work that the UK and its research community are but a part of a wider ecology. UK researchers produce just over 6% of the peer-reviewed papers published each year; and nearly half of them are produced in collaboration with colleagues from overseas. Research and its communication are activities which transcend geographical boundaries; in an internet world more so than ever. Our concern, therefore, is not just to ensure that the UK’s research is accessible across the world, but much more broadly that the world’s research is accessible across the UK. This important factor has significantly influenced our recommendations.
- 1.13. Individuals and organisations in the UK have played prominent roles in global moves to increase access over the past two decades. It is vital that in seeking to sustain its leading edge as a research nation, the UK should continue to fulfil that prominent role, for the benefit of researchers and all who have an interest in their work, across the world.
