The survey collects research and development (R&D) data from UK business enterprises who have been identified as R&D performers. This includes expenditure data, types of research and numbers of scientists/researchers, technicians and support staff. It is the only survey that measures R&D expenditure and employment in the business sector in the UK. The data are used for policy purposes on Science and Technology, of which Research and Development (R&D) is an important part. Also used widely by academia.