Where would the intellectual property system be without research and development? A strong R&D sector is a critical component of a successful innovation economy and public support for R&D is essential to ensure that politicians continue to fund it. Lee and his deputy, Neil, are joined by Dr Ben Bleasdale, of the Campaign for Science and Engineering (CaSE) to discuss his work with the public and politicians to promote the importance of R&D and future collaboration between CIPA and CaSE.